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Early introduction and COVID-19

Asian baby boy eating blend food on a high chair

Families with babies at high risk of food allergy may be wondering if they should proceed with early introduction of allergenic solids during this time of COVID-19. High-risk babies have eczema or pre-existing food allergy, or an immediate family member with eczema, food allergy, asthma or hay fever.

Even during a pandemic, the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) continues to recommend introducing allergenic solids early — around 6 months, but not before 4 months of age — to infants at high risk of food allergy. The CPS makes this recommendation as the benefit (large reduction in food allergy) is viewed to outweigh the risk (extremely small risk of severe reaction at first ingestion). 

Learn more about this CPS recommendation and watch our 2020 Q&A webinar on introducing allergens to babies during COVID-19 with the co-authors of the CPS practice point on the introduction of allergenic foods, Dr. Elissa Abrams and Dr. Edmond Chan. Plus, check our “Eat Early. Eat Often.” resource for parents which features practical ways and recipes for introducing allergens early.

Canadian Paediatric Society recommendations
New resource: Eat Early. Eat Often.

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