Resource kits and training will be introduced across the State to support all schools and childcare services to protect children suffering potentially deadly anaphylaxis.

Local MLA, Peter Abetz, said the resources would be released across the State helping to ensure staff knew what to do in the case of an emergency .

“WA children will have access to the most comprehensive and current anaphylaxis resources available anywhere in Australia, which were among the best in the world,” Mr Abetz said.

“This is a groundbreaking initiative which will, for the first time, provide clear guidelines and training for teachers, childcare service workers and parents on how to manage anaphylaxis.”

Anaphylaxis is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that can be triggered by exposure to certain substances such as foods, medications and insect stings and bites, which impacts on the lives of many children in WA each year.

The kits would be distributed in February and include guidelines, adrenaline autoinjector training devices, and other publications and tools to manage anaphylaxis.

Free certified training to support the kits would be provided by community health nurses from Child and Adolescent Community Health and the WA Country Health Service, with specialist support from the Immunology Department at Princess Margaret Hospital, throughout the 2010 school year. 

“Colin Barnett, the State Government and I are committed to reducing the risk of anaphylaxis for all Western Australian children and this is an important step which could help save young lives.” Peter Abetz said.

More information on anaphylaxis management can be found at http://www.health.wa.gov.au/anaphylaxis or by calling (08) 9222 2350.

17th February 2010

Contact

Dr Nicole Myers
Research Officer for Peter Abetz MLA
Member for Southern River
Unit 4, 2 Furley Road
Southern River  WA  6110

Ph: 9256 4900   I    Fax: 9256 4995