The level of food allergy knowledge among primary school personnel

Introduction. Food allergy seems to be quite prevalent among school children and may be associated with significant risk for sensitized children. No information is available on the knowledge that school personnel possess on this subject and their ability to react to potential situations. Aim of the study. To evaluate the level of knowledge and competence of the school personnel in the management and prevention of food allergy symptoms in school children. Material and methods. The heads of 62 randomly selected primary schools in Lodz were asked to complete the Europrevall European research program questionnaire. The 56-item questionnaire assessed food allergy. Results. Almost all (93%) heads agreed to take part in the study and 81% returned the questionnaire. Most of the questionnaires, 76% were completed by nurses. Children with food allergy were reported in 84% of the schools with an average of 12 allergic children per school. In 68% of the schools various procedures for the management of food allergy related events were prepared: in 74% of the schools the parents would be called, while in 50% of the schools an ambulance would be called. Although epinephrine was available in 72% of the schools, only 10% of the personnel were able to administer it. Conclusion. The personnel of the schools demonstrated a relatively low level of awareness and knowledge about food allergy, thus the development of educational programs at schools is desirable.