Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe and sudden allergic reaction when a person is exposed to an allergen. The most common allergens in children are eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (e.g. cashews), cow's milk, fish and shellfish, wheat, soy, certain insect stings and medications.

Anaphylaxis is a serious health issue for a percentage of the population and the Department recognises the key to prevention of anaphylaxis is knowledge, awareness and planning.

On 14 July 2008, the Children’s Services and Education Legislation Amendment (Anaphylaxis Management) Act 2008 (http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au) came into effect amending the Children’s Services Act 1996 and the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 requiring that all licensed children’s services and schools have an anaphylaxis management policy in place.

For information about policy and procedures see:

Anaphylaxis management in children’s services	Anaphylaxis management in schools