A healthy outlook

Allergies The British Allergy Foundation encompasses all types of allergy, including asthma, nuts, eczema, seafood and hay fever, and offers advice to anyone concerned about any allergies. It produces a range of leaflets on allergy testing, and avoiding indoor allergens, eczema, egg allergy, and a school guide to peanut protocol, all 50p each (minimum order 15). The Foundation also has an allergy helpline from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday on 020 8303 8583.

Contact the British Allergy Foundation, Deepdene House, 30 Bellegrove Road, Welling, Kent DA16 3PY (020 8303 8525, fax 020 8303 8792, website www.allergyfoundation.com).

Anaphylaxis

Anaphalaxis is a severe allergic reaction where the whole body is affected -usually within minutes of exposure to the allergen, but sometimes after a few hours. Causes include food such as peanuts, insect stings and drugs. The Anaphylaxis Campaign offers support and guidance, and is dedicated to raising awareness further in the food industry. The Campaign has information on topics including avoiding foods that trigger anaphylaxis, commonly asked questions and answers, referral to an allergy clinic, and peanut oil. It can provide information packs to pre-school groups, schools, dieticians and people allergic to wasp and bee stings. The Campaign has also produced a training video which has detailed information about the treatment of anaphylaxis, including the administration of adrenaline. The Campaign holds workshops for teenagers on anaphalaxis.