Every Minute Counts: European Allergy Body Demands Urgent School Safety Reforms

The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has issued a serious bold that children at risk of anaphylaxis remain inadequately protected in schools, urging governments to urgently standardise safety protocols and ensure access to life-saving treatment.

Speaking at an event hosted at the Spanish Congress of Deputies on Monday, EAACI President María José Torres backed a joint manifesto calling for sweeping reforms across school systems.

The initiative, endorsed alongside the Spanish Association of People with Food and Latex Allergies, Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, and Spanish Society of Pediatric Clinical Immunology, Allergology and Asthma, highlights critical gaps in preparedness that leave children vulnerable to life-threatening allergic reactions.

Torres said inconsistent responses to anaphylaxis mean a child’s survival can depend on chance — whether staff can identify symptoms, whether emergency medication is available, and whether clear procedures exist.

“Children should not be safer in one school than another,” she said, stressing the need for uniform standards.
Anaphylaxis, a rapid and potentially fatal allergic reaction, can escalate within minutes, making immediate intervention essential. However, the organisations warned that many schools still lack trained personnel, accessible adrenaline auto-injectors, and coordinated emergency plans.

The manifesto outlines key measures, including mandatory staff training, standardised response protocols, individualised care plans for at-risk pupils, and stronger coordination between health and education authorities.

The event brought together healthcare professionals, patient groups, and policymakers, underscoring growing concern that existing medical guidance is not being consistently implemented.

EAACI said the focus must now shift from policy to enforcement, warning that failure to act could continue to put lives at risk.