Australia Launches Nationwide Peanut Allergy Program

Australia has launched a world-first, nationwide peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) program for infants under 12 months diagnosed with peanut allergies, aimed at building tolerance and achieving remission. The ADAPT OIT Program, a collaboration between the National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE) and the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI), involves ten pediatric hospitals across five states. Eligible babies will receive daily doses of peanut powder at home over two years, with increasing amounts to reduce sensitivity. This initiative marks the first time such treatment is offered outside of clinical trials, with the ultimate goal of changing the management of peanut allergies from strict avoidance to safe tolerance. The program will be evaluated for its effectiveness and safety, with plans for broader implementation if successful. Australia has high rates of food allergies, making this program particularly significant.