Live Well Gluten Free

6 | www.coeliac.org.uk THE LATEST Coeliac UK’s Research Conference 2021 This year’s virtual conference is titled ‘Coeliac disease; beyond 2020, what lies ahead?’. Covid-19 has had a huge impact on diagnosis and management of coeliac disease and raised many questions around health and wellbeing for people with the condition. 2020 saw the introduction of a no-biopsy diagnosis pathway for adults and dietetic clinics had to rapidly transition to a digital format. This conference provides the opportunity for reflection and to consider what the future holds. Hear the latest updates from our amazing line up of international speakers in May at www.coeliac.org.uk/rc2021 Coronavirus vaccinations At the time of publication, everyone in priority groups one to nine should have received or been offered their coronavirus vaccination. Understandably, many of you have still been worried in this uncertain time, so here are some of your most pressing questions answered: I heard about specific guidance for people with allergies, is that the case for coeliac disease as well? No. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease, not an allergy (which can cause anaphylactic responses to some foods and medicines). People who have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose of the covid-19 vaccine, or a component of them should not be given the vaccine and should discuss their allergy with a healthcare professional. When will my child, who has coeliac disease, be vaccinated? At the time of writing, the priority groups for vaccination are focused on adults aged 16 and over. Children with coeliac disease have a very low risk of hyposplenism (a reduction in spleen function, which can affect the immune system and sometimes occurs in people with coeliac disease). We’re continuing to work with our Health Advisory Council (HAC) and Public Health England to gain more clarity for our community. As more guidance becomes available we will update our Coronavirus hub: www.coeliac.org.uk/coronavirus Legislation, known as ‘Natasha’s Law’ will come into force from 1 October 2021 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, the legislation was presented to Scottish Parliament on 11 February 2021 and will come into force on 1 October 2021 to align with the changes being made in the rest of the UK. The new law will change the way food businesses provide allergen labelling for prepacked food, such as a prepacked sandwich sold in a coffee shop. All prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) products will be required to have a label with an ingredients list, and the allergens contained emphasised on the list. This brings PPDS allergen information in line with other prepacked food, adding another layer of protection for people with coeliac disease. The Food Standards Agency published updated technical guidance for food businesses in England, Wales and Scotland on 18 June 2020. Food Standards Scotland is expected to publish its own equivalent technical guidance ahead of the Autumn. We will providing more updates on ‘Natasha’s Law’ as they happen so please keep an eye on the website for more information. Natasha’s Law to come into force in October Tell your story We’re on the lookout for more people to tell their story of coeliac disease and living gluten free. By sharing your experience with us, you can help us raise awareness of the condition, and the impact it has on thousands of people across the UK. To find out more, and complete our online questionnaire, visit www.coeliac.org.uk/tell-your-story