13 Feb 2017
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life threatening, severe allergic reaction that should always be treated as a medical emergency. Anaphylaxis occurs after exposure to an allergen (usually to foods, insects or medicines), to which a person is allergic. Not all people with allergies are at risk of anaphylaxis.
As of this year we have students enrolled at Bankstown West who have a diagnosis of anaphylaxis. For this reason we must change some of our practices and procedures. Part of this involves educating all children and parents in the seriousness of this condition. Once we understand that death is a potential consequence we can do nothing less than wholeheartedly support these families, as is the Bankstown West way.
For this reason we have removed some items from the school canteen (e.g. zaatar) and we have asked parents to please stop sending to school lunches that include zaatar, peanut butter and Nutella. When children understand they are eating these foods for afternoon tea when they are at home rather than at school so that they are helping keep others safe, they are displaying respect and responsibility.
Please discuss this with your children to reinforce the message we are giving at school. It is easy for parents of a child with anaphylaxis to do all in their power to keep him or her safe. What makes us responsible members of our school community is our commitment to keep all children safe, even the ones we don't know personally.