Managing Anaphylaxis in a Nursery Setting

Posted on 18th September 2011 by admin in Editorials

There are many children in nursery settings throughout the country who are at risk from severe food allergies but the vast majority are happily accommodated in mainstream settings thanks to good communication and consensus between parents/guardians, settings, managers, staff, doctors and health authorities.

Food allergies are estimated to affect 1–2% of the adult population but are more prevalent in infants and children. The most common allergenic foods are eggs, milk, fish, shellfish, peanuts, soya, wheat, tree nuts and seeds. Allergies to certain foods, such as peanuts and peanut products, other nuts, seeds and their derivatives, and shellfish can be particularly acute and may even be fatal

The risk of anaphylaxis presents a challenge to any nursery setting but with sound precautionary measures and support, a child’s pre-school life should continue as normal for all concerned.

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