Anaphylaxis (pronounced ana-fill-ax-is) is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. The Anaphylaxis Campaign is the only UK charity operating solely for the growing numbers of people at risk from severe allergic reactions. Severe symptoms such as swollen airways, acute asthma or becoming unconscious usually develop suddenly, often within minutes after being exposed to an allergy trigger such as a particular food. A fatality can occur within a short time of contact with an allergen.
The Anaphylaxis Campaign is running a University Campaign throughout 2019 and 2020 to raise awareness with colleges and universities to the challenges students with severe allergy face in respect of;
- Meeting their own health needs and carrying 2 Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (AAI’s)
- Eating at university events,
- Eating out in their university town
- Living in shared university accommodation
The Anaphylaxis Campaign have identified that 16-24-year old’s are in a high-risk group when it comes to managing their allergies. Having had parents to support them manage their allergies they now face having to do this alone. Students are often reluctant to share information about their allergies; they often resist carrying their AAI’s and may experiment with foods they are allergic to. Freshers week and social events often places additional pressures for the severely allergic student.
Starting university can be a daunting time for anyone, but especially for someone who has severe allergies. The Anaphylaxis Campaign have produced a poster that can be displayed in your restaurant/catering facility to ensure that allergic students ask the questions to help ensure they are eating food that is safe for them. This can be downloaded below.
The Anaphylaxis Campaign have also developed a booklet to help support allergic students which includes advice on preparing for university, information on eating out, our adult allergy action plan and general tips on managing their allergies throughout university.
Download your complimentary booklet here.
If you want to develop your knowledge about Anaphylaxis why not undertake a free AllergyWise course.
You can contact a helpline and information team at [email protected] or call 01252 542 029 for support between Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
