11/07/2026
NATIONAL AWARENESS DAY
THE NATIONAL ALLERGY DAY is observed every July 8 in the Philippines pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1313. This annual observance aims to increase public awareness on the prevention, early diagnosis, and proper management of allergies, one of the most common health conditions affecting Filipinos.
The celebration is spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (PSAAI) through health education campaigns, lectures, consultations, and community awareness activities.
🤧 WHAT IS AN ALLERGY?
An allergy is an exaggerated reaction of the body's immune system to substances that are normally harmless. These substances are called allergens.
When an allergic person comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system releases chemicals such as histamine, resulting in allergy symptoms.
COMMON CAUSES (Allergens)
🌿 Pollen from grasses, trees, and flowers
🏠 House dust mites
🐶 Animal fur or pet dander
🍤 Foods
Seafood
Peanuts
Tree nuts
Milk
Eggs
Soy
Wheat
💊 Certain medications
Penicillin
Some antibiotics
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
🐝 Insect bites or stings
🧴 Cosmetics, perfumes, and latex
🦠 Mold and fungi
⚠️ Common Signs and Symptoms
🤧 Frequent sneezing
👃 Runny or stuffy nose
👀 Itchy, watery, or red eyes
😷 Persistent cough
😮💨 Wheezing or difficulty breathing
🫁 Asthma attacks
🌡️ Skin rashes
🟥 Hives (Urticaria)
😖 Itching
💋 Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
🚨 SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION (Anaphylaxis) is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
🛡️ HOW CAN WE PREVENT ALLERGIES?
✅ Identify and avoid your allergy triggers.
✅ Keep your surroundings clean and dust-free.
✅ Wash bedding regularly using hot water.
✅ Wear a face mask when exposed to dust or pollen.
✅ Read food labels carefully.
✅ Inform healthcare providers about your allergies.
✅ Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
✅ Keep pets clean if you are allergic to animal dander.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the allergy.
✔ Antihistamines
✔ Nasal sprays
✔ Eye drops
✔ Inhalers for asthma
✔ Allergy immunotherapy (when recommended)
✔ Epinephrine injection (EpiPen) for severe allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis)
Always consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
💙 Healthy Reminder
Early recognition and proper management of allergies can prevent serious complications and improve quality of life.
If you experience persistent allergy symptoms or have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
"Breathe Better. Live Better. Know Your Allergies."