Anaphylaxis
Introduction
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can be life threatening. It involves a reaction from two or more body systems and can occur within minutes of exposure to the trigger. Food is the most common cause of anaphylaxis, but insect stings, medications and latex can also cause an anaphylactic reaction.
The following activities have been designed to increase student’s knowledge and understanding of anaphylaxis as a medical condition that affects young people.
Click on the links below to take you to the activity.
The activities link to the Stage 4 PDHPE outcomes and content.
These activities could be included in units of work exploring health issues that affect young people, first aid, emergency care or harm minimisation.
Please note: When teaching about anaphylaxis, consider student sensitivities around this issue. It may be useful to talk to students with allergies before presenting the teaching and learning activities to gauge their reaction. It is not appropriate to refer to individual students who have allergies without first gaining their permission. Some students may wish to contribute personal stories to support the teaching and learning in the classroom, other students may not wish their condition to be disclosed to the class.
It is important to notify and discuss the implementation of these curriculum materials with the parents of students diagnosed as being at risk of anaphylaxis. Teachers need to be aware not only of diagnosed students in the class but also the potential for students to have family members and close friends at risk of anaphylaxis.
Teachers also need to be sensitive towards the provision of information about allergies, especially if it involves the identification of students who suffer from allergies, in such a way to ensure there is not increased risk of bullying or discrimination.
© State of New South Wales through the Department of Education and Training, 1999 - 2009. All rights reserved.
Conditions of use | Help | Contact us
Report incorrect, out-of-date or missing information