Topic

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a serious systemic hypersensitivity reaction that is rapid in onset and can be fatal. The highest incidence of anaphylaxis is in children and youth. The three principal triggers of anaphylaxis are foods, insect stings, and drugs. In Canada, there is an Emergency Department (ED) visit for food allergy approximately every 10 minutes, and up to 80% of anaphylactic reactions in children are triggered by foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, and milk.