World Allergy Week 2025: Raising Awareness on Anaphylaxis – A Preventable Life-Threatening Reaction

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World Allergy Week, an annual campaign initiated by the World Allergy Organization (WAO), runs this year from 29 June to 5 July, with a critical focus on anaphylaxis—a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. In South Africa, The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA), in collaboration with the Allergy Society of South Africa (ALLSA), is spearheading local awareness efforts.

What is Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that typically develops rapidly after exposure to allergens such as certain foods, insect venom, medications, or latex. In South Africa, bee venom is the most common cause, but food-induced anaphylaxis—particularly from eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and milk—is increasingly prevalent.

Recognising the Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Symptoms typically begin within minutes of exposure and may start as mild allergy signs such as hives, redness, or itching, followed by more serious developments. These include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the tongue or throat, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

Professor Mike Levin, CEO of AFSA and Head of Allergology at Red Cross Children’s Hospital, explains that the real danger with anaphylaxis is how quickly symptoms can escalate. “Anaphylaxis doesn’t give you much time. If it’s not treated within minutes, the consequences can be devastating. We need the public to understand that this is not just a severe allergy—this is a life-threatening emergency,” says Prof. Levin.

He adds that awareness must go beyond the patient and family. “Teachers, caregivers, coaches, and community members need to know how to recognise the signs of anaphylaxis and what to do. That’s why education and access to emergency medication are critical parts of this year’s campaign.”

Emergency Treatment: Adrenaline Saves Lives

Immediate administration of intramuscular adrenaline (epinephrine) is the cornerstone of emergency anaphylaxis treatment. Individuals at risk are strongly advised to carry an adrenaline auto-injector at all times and to be trained in its use.

Dr Candice Royal, Paediatric Allergist and medical advisor to AFSA explains:

“Adrenaline should be administered as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected. It can be lifesaving. A second dose may be needed if there’s no improvement within 5 minutes, but the most important step is calling emergency medical services and heading to the nearest hospital right away.”

Prevention Through Education and Testing

Avoiding known allergens is the most effective prevention method. Accurate diagnosis through allergy testing helps identify triggers, especially in patients with unexplained or idiopathic reactions.

Dr Pieter de Waal, allergist and ALLSA member, adds:

“Education is key to prevention. We urge patients, caregivers, schools, and healthcare professionals to be allergy-aware—understanding both the causes and the practical steps needed to manage this risk can truly save lives.”

South African Awareness Campaigns and Resources

In support of this year’s campaign, AFSA continues to distribute free educational materials to schools, clinics and healthcare professionals, including its How to Use an Auto-Injector poster. Requests for printed versions or downloadable copies can be made via the AFSA website. The organisation also runs an online Food Allergy support group. Patients with serious food allergies can join the group by emailing info@allergyfoundation.co.za.

To learn more about anaphylaxis and what steps to take in an emergency , AFSA will be sharing anaphylaxis awareness messages via social media on Tik Tok @dr.randallortel , @SAallergy on Instagram, and their Facebook page. AFSA hopes to stop preventable deaths from severe allergic reactions by spreading knowledge and resources across communities.

For expert resources and support, visit www.allergyfoundation.co.za or explore more at the World Allergy Organization. https://www.worldallergyweek.org/

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KWANELE NGOBESE

I am a media and communications professional with a focus on public relations and digital content. At After 12 Communications, I manage social media platforms and publish articles that inform, engage, and elevate the brand’s voice. Passionate about storytelling and digital engagement, I bring creativity, consistency, and strategy to every project I work on. Follow me on Twitter: @Kwanele_Coms

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