Unfortunately I am one of the individuals included in that 1.5% and cannot consume, touch, or smell peanuts. Unlike the people mentioned in this article who has "severe" reactions to peanuts, and by severe I mean watering eyes, hives, and an itchy throat, I will suffer from anaphylactic shock if I come into contact with peanuts. And because of this fact, the last time I flew was when I was a 9-month-old.
I completely agree that much of the time the severity of food allergies in general is blown entirely out of proportion and the exaggerations complicate life for others who have to tailor their snacks and/or lifestyles, but this stigma comes back to bite the 1.5% who genuinely require the deference of others. I believe this is something that people have to take into account when asked to refrain from eating nuts or peanut products.
I'm 18-years-old and am fervently in love with all things relating to ancient Greece and Rome. Consequently, one of my dreams, aspirations, what-have-you, is to visit Italy and Greece, and although this dream is completely achievable by crossing the Atlantic by boat, it's entirely more realistic if I crossed by plane. To date, my physician still strongly advises me to refrain from flying due to the results of blood tests performed by an allergist. I look forward to a day, hopefully very soon, when Europe will become a reality for me, but this depends largely on the airlines, the knowledge of the passengers, and their willingness to accommodate.

Itchy

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