Langwarrin Primary School Newsletter Logo
Langwarrin Primary School Newsletter
Banner Photo

First Aid Reminders

Term 2

Food Allergy Week

Gallery Image

Food Allergy Week was created by Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia to raise awareness of food allergy in Australia.

 

Australia has one of the highest rates of food allergies in the world, with almost 2 million Australians living with a food allergy. We also have one of the highest rates of hospital anaphylaxis admissions in the world. There has been a 51% increase in anaphylaxis presentations to emergency departments in a 5-year period, growing to more than 11,500 per year. 

 

During Food Allergy Week 2026, Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia calls on all Australians to unite to help increase awareness and share information on what we can all do to improve safety for people who live with food allergies. Awareness and education help reduce the risk of allergic reactions, and effectively treat potentially life-threatening emergencies when they happen.

 

In 2026 the theme for Food Allergy Week is focused on anaphylaxis and knowing what to do in an emergency – and our message is: Recognise the signs, be ready to react.

 

For further information please click on the link below.

Food Allergy Week - Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia

Influenza

Influenza (flu) can be serious, especially for children.  

 

Choose to protect yourself and your loved ones with an annual flu vaccine. The earlier you and your family get vaccinated, the better your protection heading into winter.  

 

Keeping our school community well  

 

We encourage parents and carers and students to: 

 

  • wash or sanitise your hands thoroughly and regularly, particularly before and after touching your face 
  • cough or sneeze into your elbow 
  • stay home if unwell and consult your GP or Nurse-on-Call as needed 

  • stay up to date with your flu vaccinations. 

     

Flu vaccinations 

 

Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. 

Some people are more at risk of severe illness from flu, especially babies and toddlers. They can get a free vaccination as part of the National Immunisation Program. 

 

You can book a flu vaccine through your GP or pharmacy, or find a flu vaccine near you.  

RSV vaccinations for mothers and babies 

 

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common virus that causes colds and ear infections. In babies, it can cause severe illness like bronchiolitis.  

 

The RSV vaccine is available for pregnant women as part of the National Immunisation Program. In Victoria, eligible babies can also get the RSV vaccine until Wednesday 30 September 2026.  

 

You can speak with your GP or midwife about the vaccine. 

 

Find out more 

For more information about staying well this winter, refer to: 

 

  • your GP, pharmacist or midwife 
  • the Better Health Channel – Don’t risk the flu campaign, including information about flu and other vaccines. This information is available in different languages 
  • the Better Health Channel – RSV vaccine for mothers and infants 
  • the Raising Children Network – influenza, COVID-19, bronchiolitis and helping your child prepare for vaccination.