A breakfast took a dangerous turn for a Georgia family as their 2-year-old experienced a severe allergic reaction to eggs, showcasing the unpredictable nature of food allergies in children. Kendall Thomas, 22, recalls the day as routine, having breakfast with her family at her parents’ home.

Thomas shared, “We visited my parents often for breakfast.” On this occasion, her daughter was in a diaper due to a messy outfit, which turned out to be an important detail. Shortly after consuming eggs—a food she had eaten multiple times before—the toddler developed a rash.

Thomas suspected an allergic reaction, noting a minor earlier incident without an identified cause. Egg allergy is prevalent in the U.S., affecting about 0.9 percent of all children and 1.3 percent of those under five, according to the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.

Approximately 2.7 million Americans are estimated to have an egg allergy. While many reactions are mild, some are serious. Among children with egg allergies, reported symptoms include throat tightening (14.2 percent), wheezing (11.5 percent), and low blood pressure (11 percent), all of which can lead to anaphylaxis.

After administering diphenhydramine (Benadryl), her daughter immediately vomited. As a widespread rash appeared and persistent coughing ensued, the family headed quickly to the nearest hospital. During the drive, Thomas’s daughter became unresponsive, vomited again, and temporarily stopped breathing.

Thomas recalled, “I felt like time slowed as we pleaded for her safety.” Her mother worked to clear the child’s airway. After about a minute, the toddler began to breathe and cry, which occurred as they arrived at the emergency department.

Medical staff evaluated the child upon arrival. The rash dissipated, and she stabilized within an hour. Thomas noted feeling unsure about the trigger of the reaction, but they were provided with EpiPens.

Thomas expressed gratitude for her husband’s driving, helpful motorists, and emergency staff. She hopes this incident cautions other parents about hidden food allergens.

“Introduce allergens with care. Her life shouldn’t change significantly,” Thomas remarked. “She enjoys cakes and cookies—without eggs. We ensure awareness of her allergies when eating out. Initially, it was challenging but now it’s routine.”