The severity of an allergic reaction could be unpredictable. The  majority of the allergic reactions present with mild to moderate symptoms and signs and they do not progress to anaphylaxis (even in children with history of anaphylaxis).

There are groups of patients at an increased risk of anaphylaxis and required to carry AAIs e.g. children who have a history of anaphylaxis in the past (breathing difficulty or signs of hypotension), severe asthma, or if they live in a remote location which would result in medical help being delayed.

A risk assessment is completed by a healthcare professional upon diagnosis. Spare, back-up AAI’s can improve preparedness for a potential first time severe allergic reaction if pupils have been given authorisation for their use.

All AAI’s devices deliver adrenaline, but each brand is built differently and require slightly different techniques when administering the device.

Videos which explain the use of each device can be found in the video bank.

Anaphylaxis should ALWAYS be treated with an adrenaline autoinjector (e.g. EpiPen) and an ambulance must be called; for further treatment and observation in hospital.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis can return hours after the initial reaction. This is known as a biphasic reaction.

ALWAYS take the emergency kit to the child.

If the child is walked or hurried to another area, this can cause a further drop in blood pressure or worsen any breathing difficulties resulting from the allergic reaction.

Remember; don’t walk or stand the child during an allergic reaction. Sit the child on the floor if breathing difficulties or lie him/her down if signs of low blood pressure.