Recognising and Responding to Allergic Reactions in Babies and Children

They can happen quickly – but being prepared makes all the difference.

Allergic reactions in children can be frightening, especially if you haven’t seen it happen before. Australia has one of the highest rates of food allergies in the world, and while most reactions are mild, some can become life-threatening within minutes.

Understanding how to recognise the signs – and knowing what to do – could save a life.

What Is an Allergy?

An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance – like a food, insect sting, or medication.

The most common food allergens are:
🍳 Egg 🥜 Peanut 🌾 Wheat 🥛 Cow’s milk 🌰 Tree nuts 🐟 Fish 🦐 Shellfish 🌿 Sesame 🍣 Soy 

Allergic responses can vary widely. Some children may have mild, short-lived symptoms; others may experience anaphylaxis, a rapidly progressing severe allergic reaction that affects breathing and circulation.

🎥 Watch: Here is a fantastic video on how allergies work.

Recognising the Signs

Allergic reactions usually occur quickly, within minutes (although they can take up to 2 hours). Other responses to foods may be delayed.

Mild or Moderate Allergic Reaction

• Swelling of the lips, face, or eyes
• Hives or welts
• Vomiting

Signs of Anaphylaxis (Severe Reaction)

🚨 Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if your child has ANY ONE or more of the following:

• Difficulty or noisy breathing
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling/tightness in the throat (drooling, difficulty swallowing)
• Change in voice or cry an/or difficulty vocalising
• Persistent cough or wheeze
• Pale and floppy or collapse

➡️ Anaphylaxis is always a medical emergency.

What to Do

If It’s a Mild or Moderate Reaction

✅ Stay with your child and reassure them
✅ Discuss the use of non-drowsy antihistamines for children under one year of age with your doctor. Sedating antihistamines should not be given.
✅ Watch closely, allergic reactions can progress quickly
✅ Call an ambulance if symptoms worsen or you’re unsure

If It’s Anaphylaxis

1. Lay your child down. For a young child hold them flat in your arms, lay an older child on the floor. DO NOT hold them upright. DO NOT allow your baby or child to stand or walk. If breathing is difficult, allow them to sit with their legs outstretched, refer to picture. If they are unconscious or vomiting, place them on their side.
2. If you have one – administer an adrenaline injector (EpiPen or Anapen) without delay.
3. Call Triple Zero (000).
4. Note the time the adrenaline injector was given (if you have one).
5. If used, give the used adrenaline injector to the paramedics when they arrive.

‘Nip Allergies in the Bub’ has a great video and images showing how to position someone having a severe allergic reaction, and more information on the correct response.

IMAGE SOURCE: ASCIA First Aid for Anaphylaxis poster

Allergy Action Plans and Preparation

Having an ASCIA Action Plan can guide you through what to do in an allergic emergency – and helps others care for your child safely.

Make sure everyone in your child’s circle (school, daycare, grandparents, babysitters) knows:

• What your child is allergic to
• Where the EpiPen/Anapen is stored
• How to use it

💡 Tip: Check injector expiry dates regularly and keep a spare where your child spends the most time.

Introducing Allergenic Foods

Introducing common allergy-causing foods early and regularly can actually reduce the risk of food allergies.
If you’re not sure how to do this safely, read our blog with our 4 top tips here.

Be Confident, Not Fearful

Allergies can feel overwhelming, but the goal isn’t to be anxious, it’s to be prepared.
By understanding what to look for and how to respond, you’ll be ready to act quickly and calmly if your child (or another child in your care) ever experiences a reaction.

👩‍⚕️ Want to feel confident handling emergencies?
Our baby and child first aid classes, taught by expert paediatric nurses, are designed to help you know exactly what to do when it counts.
👉 Book here.

References + further reading

ASCIA – ASCIA Action Plans and First Aid Plans for Anaphylaxis
Prevent Allergies – ‘Nip it in the Bub’ – How to recognise an allergic reaction
Prevent Allergies – ‘Nip it in the Bub’ – What to do if you think your baby is having an allergic reaction
Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia – What is an allergy?