Emergency procedures (food allergy)

Last updated on: 8 April 2019 | Released on: 21 April 2017

Immediate onset food allergy symptoms and what to do

If symptoms appear, follow the flow chart below (Emergency Manual cover page).
Symptoms may change rapidly. Continue monitoring at least every 5 minutes until symptoms have improved.

Emergency Manual

This Manual was designed for facilities such as schools and child care centers. However, it should be useful for households as well, with the exception of page A.
Stay calm. Becoming flustered in an emergency may keep you from making the right decisions and taking appropriate action. This Manual is designed to help you find the right procedures by following the flow chart on the cover page.

Composition of the Manual (download PDF)

Complete file
Separate files

Cover page

A. Roles and responsibilities

B. Determination of urgency, and what to do

C. How to use EpiPen

D. Pointers for calling an ambulance

E. How to perform CPR and use an AED

F. Symptom check sheet

How to prepare for an emergency

Next: What to do if you touch a trigger food

What to do if you touch a trigger food

If there are no symptoms requiring urgent treatment, do the following.
Symptoms may change rapidly. Continue to monitor symptoms.

If trigger food touches your skin

Localized itching, redness, hives

  • Wash the area which touched the trigger food.
  • Do not rub your eyes with hands which touched the trigger food.

When you have eye symptoms

When you have itching, red eyes, or swelling/puffiness

  • Wash your eyes.
  • If you have anti-allergy medication or steroid eye drops, use it.

When you have put the trigger food in your mouth

Discomfort in mouth or throat (itching, pain, nausea)

  • Remove the food from the mouth and rinse out the mouth.