Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction and is potentially life threatening. It must be treated as a medical emergency, requiring immediate treatment and urgent medical attention.

Follow this link to complete the ASCIA (Australasian society of clinical immunology and allergy) e-training to anaphylaxis management in the community. Although Australian specific, the knowledge and first aid steps are the same.

https://anaphylaxis.ascia.org.au/course/index.php

• Scroll down to ASCIA anaphylaxis e-training for first aid (community) 2024
• Click to enter the course.
• Create new account with your email address.

Epipen funding:

Who qualifies for funding:

• Anyone with previous anaphylactic reactions: If you have ever experienced an anaphylactic reaction that required an Emergency Department visit or a hospital admission, you are eligible for funding.

OR

• If you are at a significant risk of anaphylaxis: If a relevant practitioner determines you are at a significant risk of anaphylaxis, you qualify for funding.

How to access funding:

• The funding for EpiPen auto-injectors is subject to funding criteria. This is completed by your general practitioner. They may be able to assist in navigating the process and, if eligible, help you secure your fully funded EpiPen auto-injectors.
• You can also request an additional funded prescription just before your EpiPen auto-injectors expire or to replace a used device.

Why two EpiPen auto-injectors may be best prescribed:

• For children in daycare or school: Having two EpiPen auto-injectors allows children to keep one with them at all times (whilst in or out of home) and the other at daycare or school, ensuring quick access to emergency treatment wherever they are.
• For adolescents and adults: Carrying two EpiPen auto-injectors at all times allows for the administration of more than one dose if needed, which is crucial in scenarios like biphasic reactions (second anaphylactic reaction following the first), ambulance delays during emergencies, or in high-stress situations where user-error might occur.