Managing childhood food allergies and anaphylaxis.

BACKGROUND: Food allergies in children are becoming more common causing concern for parents, child carers, teachers and school principals. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to provide practical information on childhood food allergies and their ongoing management including assessment, prescription of self or carer administered adrenaline, emergency action plans, patient education, school based strategies, and family support. DISCUSSION: With most schools, preschools and child care centres having at least one child with food allergies, general practitioners are increasingly likely to be involved in school liaison and education, as well as caring for families with food allergic children.