Allergy and Anaphylaxis
Allergy occurs when a person reacts to substances in the environment that are harmless to most people. These substances are known as allergens and are found in dust mites, pets, pollen, insects, ticks, moulds, foods and some drugs (medications).
Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction and should always be treated as a medical emergency. Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine), which is injected into the outer mid-thigh muscle. If treatment with adrenaline is delayed, this can result in fatal anaphylaxis.
Fast Facts
Fast Facts about Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Injectors
Action Plans
Click on the links below for more information (A-Z)
Adrenaline for Treatment of Anaphylaxis
Allergic Reactions - Signs and Symptoms
Anaphylaxis Facts for Parents and Carers
Common Myths about Allergy and Asthma Exposed
Checklists
Anaphylaxis Checklist - Patients and Carers
Anaphylaxis Checklist - Young Adults (Transitioning from Paediatric to Adult Medical Care)
Anaphylaxis Checklist - Travel (People at Risk of Anaphylaxis)
Forms
Allergic Reactions Clinical History Form
Allergic Reactions Event Record Form
ASCIA Anaphylaxis e-training
ASCIA Anaphylaxis e-training courses
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How Allergies Work is a short (4 minute) animation about allergies, anaphylaxis and the immune system, and is a National Allergy Council initiative.
Useful links
Webpage updated August 2024