The World Allergy Week 2021 is observed across the globe from 13th to 19th June 2021 to create awareness about the allergic disease and related disorders. The day also advocates the provisions of training and resources in diagnosis, management, and prevention of these diseases and asthma.
The World Allergy Week is an annual initiative of the World Allergy Organization (WAO).
The theme of the World Allergy Week 2021 is “Anaphylaxis: Be Aware.Be prepared.Save lives”.
Background:
i.In association with the biennial World Allergy Congress, the WAO hosted World Allergy Day was first observed in July 2005.
ii.Following the recommendations of WAO Member Societies and other associates of WAO, to expand the scope of World Allergy Day, the WAO Board of Directors approved the establishment of World Allergy Week in 2011.
iii.The First World Allergy Week was observed in 2011.
Events:
i.Annually, the WAO addresses a topic that needs awareness and conducts various webinars to create awareness among the general public.
ii.The WAO also provides various infographic and additional information to educate and spread awareness on the topic.
iii.The topic of 2021 World Allergy Week is Anaphylaxis.
About Anaphylaxis:
i.Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to venom, food, or medication. Anaphylaxis can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to allergens.
ii.The signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis include rapid, weak pulse; a skin rash; and nausea and vomiting.
iii.Anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release a flood of chemicals which causes a person to go into shock.
About World Allergy Organization (WAO):
President– Motohiro Ebisawa
President-elect– Bryan Martin
Secretary-general– Mário Morais-Almeida
Headquarters– Milwaukee, United States of America
