Finally got to see the consultant over at the Royal Surrey hospital this morning. Yes David, it was the consultant that you mentioned.

 

We had a long and thorough chat about the history behind the sting, the actual sting etc.I was impressed.

 

In her opinion an 'young' child will probably grow out of the allergy. An adult will not grow out of it and should have the desensitisation. My son falls between these camps being an 'older' child. She has advised a change in our management of any future stings. If Joe is stung he should take 2 quick acting antihistamines and call for medical help. If he then feels the signs of the 'shock' coming on (as before) then use the epipen. In her opinion, IF he is growing out of the reaction, then the antihistamines may be enough!

Joe also had a blood test to look at his blood profile.

 

She admitted that the whole issue is a huge grey area...every person (and every wasp!) is different!

 

We have also been referred to St Mary's in London as they are the only hospital that she knows of where they will desensitise a child. We are to go along and see whether they think he should undergo the treatment.

 

Now I have to go and sort out our secondary school admission issues!!!!!! ( the form was lost!!!) A very British problem if our US friends are wondering!!!