NEW ANAPHYLAXIS GUIDELINES FOR QUEENSLAND SCHOOLS

The State Government has introduced new guidelines to assist Queensland schools in managing students with anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.

Education Minister, Rod Welford, said the Anaphylaxis Guidelines for Queensland Schools provided specific information for school staff on how to care for students diagnosed by a medical practitioner as being anaphylactic.

“Anaphylaxis is a severe and sudden allergic reaction,” Mr Welford said.

“It is a health condition which is potentially life threatening and always requires an emergency response.

"It is increasingly common in children and it is important that school staff understand the management and treatment of students.

“The guidelines provide information on the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, emergency treatment procedures and strategies for reducing the risks.

“There is an action plan that incorporates information and planned responses to an individual student’s anaphylactic reaction.

“This was developed by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy.”

Mr Welford said the guidelines also provided information and advice for schools on education and training requirements for staff.

“State school principals must ensure a range of school staff are trained in the use of emergency treatments,” he said.

“To complement the guidelines a PowerPoint presentation has also been developed for schools.”

Mr Welford said the guidelines followed extensive consultation with peak allergy bodies, government agencies and parents and citizens associations and government.

The guidelines and PowerPoint are available from the Education Queensland website at http://education.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000