Allergies in Sweden

No other country is as serious about combating allergies as Sweden.

There are many restaurants which have 'allergy free' certificates. These certificates are granted to restaurant staffs who have attended a special training course which will enable them to advise customers on food options to avoid the risk of getting allergic reactions. For instance, celiac disease or gluten allergy is common in Sweden. When eating in restaurants, the chef or anyone from the staff can provide adequate information on what food contains gluten.

There are only about 10% of children in Sweden who suffer from food allergies. The most common allergies in pre-school children are caused by milk, egg, fish, wheat-flour, peanuts, nuts, soy and stone fruits.

But there's one allergy that is quite alarming for parents. The number of Swedish children with allergic rhinitis and asthma has doubled in recent years. Often, the major trigger of asthma in Sweden is cat dander, which is also caused by dust mites.

Persons not eligible for state heathcare should consider securing private health insurance in Sweden. Allergy attacks can happen without any warning. Before the move to Sweden, secure international health insurance that will cover individual medical expenses.