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Anaphylaxis is
a severe, life threatening allergic reaction, and up to two per
cent of the general population are at risk
The
most common causes in young children are eggs, peanuts, tree nuts,
cow milk, bee or other insect stings, and some drugs.
A reaction can develop within minutes of exposure to the allergen,
but with planning and training, a reaction can be treated
effectively by using an adrenaline injection (EpiPen®).
 Signs
and symptoms of anaphylaxis
All reactions need to be taken seriously, but not all reactions
will require adrenaline.
The following are common signs and symptoms of an allergic
reaction. A reaction will include one or more of these symptoms,
and it is possible that a number of them will occur
simultaneously:
• Hives or welts
• A tingling feeling in or around the mouth
• Abdominal pain, vomiting and/or diarrhoea
• Facial swelling
• Cough or wheeze
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Loss of consciousness or collapse
• Breathing stops.
It is also important to remember that young children may not be
able to express what the problem is, or may describe it in
other
words.
Prevention of an allergic reaction
• Know and avoid the causes
• Do not allow food sharing or swapping
• Only give foods approved by parents
• Give only food rewards or ‘treats’ provided by the parents
• Encourage parents to provide a container of safe treats
from
home
• Practice routine hygiene. Children and staff should always wash
their hands after play and before eating.
Child's Anaphylaxis Plan
Anaphylaxis Guidelines for Government Schools
4-5
reference guide for schools
Anaphylaxis model policy June08 children services
Children new legislation
In
practice anaphylaxis management for Children in child care
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