EAACI Calls For Stronger School Safeguards For Children At Risk Of Anaphylaxis

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) is calling for urgent action to improve safety measures for children at risk of anaphylaxis in schools.

At the Spanish Congress of Deputies, EAACI joined the Spanish Association of People with Food and Latex Allergies (AEPNAA), the Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC), and the Spanish Society of Pediatric Clinical Immunology, Allergology and Asthma (SEICAP) in endorsing a joint manifesto urging stronger safeguards in educational settings.

EAACI President María José Torres said the response to anaphylaxis remains inconsistent, leaving children’s safety dependent on chance—such as whether staff recognise symptoms, whether medication is accessible, and whether clear protocols are in place.

“Children should not be safer in one school than another. We need clear protocols, trained staff, and immediate access to emergency treatment before time is lost,” said Torres in a statement.

She added that unequal levels of protection across schools are unacceptable and stressed that implementation is now the key priority.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, fast-moving allergic reaction that can become life-threatening within minutes. For many families, this risk is part of everyday life, especially during the school day, when children are outside the immediate reach of their parents or carers.

The manifesto outlines several measures to address current gaps, including a standardised school protocol, mandatory staff training, ready access to adrenaline auto-injectors, individualised care plans, and stronger coordination between health and education systems.

For EAACI, the focus is on ensuring that protective measures are applied in practice, not just on paper. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based actions that enhance patient safety and protect vulnerable children.

The initiative brought together patient organisations, scientific societies, healthcare professionals, families, and public institutions, underscoring the ongoing uncertainty faced by families over whether schools are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies.

-- BERNAMA