Learning Diversity News
Anaphylaxis and allergy awareness
It is NOT recommended that schools ‘ban’ food and as such schools should not claim to be free of any allergen (e.g. ‘nut free’). An ‘allergy aware’ approach which focuses on implementing a range of appropriate risk minimisation strategies is recommended.
https://allergyaware.org.au/schools/manage-anaphylaxis-risk
We are seeking your help to support the students in our school who are at risk of anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is potentially life threatening.
Food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in children. Currently, there is no cure for food allergy and the only way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid the food.
Children can be allergic to any food and it is not possible to completely remove these foods from our school.
We ask you to support students at risk of anaphylaxis by:
• Not sending food which has peanuts or tree nuts (e.g. hazelnuts, cashews, almonds etc)
in the ingredients list.
• Teaching your child not to share food with friends.
• Encouraging your child to wash their hands after eating.
• Asking your child to get help immediately if their friend with food allergy gets sick.
With community support, our school can provide a safe environment that meets the needs of all our students.
If you have any queries, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office.
Please see our school website for the anaphylaxis policies and other medical management.