The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

A free, web based training tool (www.allergy.org.au/etraining) will be launched in Canberra today in a bid to prevent life threatening severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) amongst Australian children.

While the cause of the growing epidemic remains unknown, food allergy related anaphylaxis is more common than ever.

In an effort to increase awareness among childcare workers, preschool and school staff, the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) has developed a training program which focuses on the recognition, prevention and emergency treatment of potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.

ASCIA president Dr Raymond Mullins said food allergy was estimated to affect three to six per cent of children under the age of three years.

"Australian hospitalisation rates due to food allergy have increased dramatically in the last decade, with recent evidence that peanut allergy has significantly increased in Australia, as it has in other developed countries," Dr Mullins said.

"Children spend up to a third of their waking life in childcare, preschool and school which means much of the care rests on childcare services and school staff.

"For anyone who cares for children who are diagnosed to be at risk of anaphylaxis, training is essential. It may be the difference between life and death."

Dr Mullins said that ASCIA anaphylaxis e-training was designed specifically for use throughout all schools and childcare services in Australia and New Zealand.

"It's an alternative when face-to-face anaphylaxis training isn't possible, and it can be a refresher for those who have already done the course, or for interim training while waiting for face-to-face training," he said.

"ASCIA anaphylaxis e-training is available at no charge and is therefore accessible for anyone who is responsible for children.

"This training can help prevent life threatening anaphylaxis and is unique, with no comparable resources currently available world-wide."

ASCIA received some financial support from NSW Health, WA Health and industry sources, however to further develop the program and provide this for health professionals at no charge, ASCIA will require more funding.

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