Parent reported allergy and anaphylaxis in 4173 South Australian children

J Paediatr Child Health. 2000 Feb;36(1):36-40. doi: 10.1046/j.1440-1754.2000.00444.x.

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of parent reported allergy and anaphylaxis in a sample of children and to investigate the first aid management of anaphylaxis in the schools and preschools that these children attend.

Methods: The study sample comprised 4173 South Australian children aged 3-17 years. Information was collected regarding parent-reported allergy and anaphylaxis. All children with known anaphylaxis were contacted and an attempt was made to contact those with reports of allergy to ascertain if these children had anaphylaxis. A telephone questionnaire was used to verify reports of anaphylaxis and determine the cause, severity and school first aid management of anaphylaxis.

Results: The rate of parent reported allergy and anaphylaxis was 7.3 and 0.59 per 100 children, respectively. Two-thirds of children with anaphylaxis did not have emergency medication available at school, an emergency action plan, or a teacher on site able to administer adrenaline for first aid use.

Conclusions: Children attending preschool or school may have had a past history of anaphylaxis. Arrangements for first aid management of these children while in this environment are often inadequate.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anaphylaxis* / prevention & control
  • Child
  • Child Day Care Centers*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity* / prevention & control
  • Parents
  • Prevalence
  • Schools*
  • South Australia
  • Truth Disclosure*