Australian quick reference
Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction
The urgent steps to take when someone has a severe allergic reaction.
Serious or worsening symptoms? Call Triple Zero (000).
The short answer
Lay the person flat unless breathing is difficult, give their adrenaline injector without delay if available, then call 000. Do not let them stand or walk.
01
What to do first
- Lay the person flat and do not let them stand or walk. If breathing is difficult, allow them to sit with legs outstretched.
- Help the person use their adrenaline injector immediately if one is available.
- Call 000 and say anaphylaxis.
- If there is no improvement after five minutes, give a second injector if available.
- Stay with them and begin CPR if they become unresponsive and are not breathing normally.
02
What to avoid
- Do not let the person stand or walk.
- Do not rely on antihistamines for anaphylaxis.
- Do not delay adrenaline while looking for other treatments.
03
When to call 000
- Breathing difficulty, throat or tongue swelling, wheeze, collapse, sudden dizziness or a severe reaction involving multiple body systems requires 000.
04
What to monitor
- Watch breathing and response continuously until help arrives.
Use the child dose injector where prescribed and follow the person’s action plan.
Practise the pattern
Make it easier to remember
Common questions
Quick answers
What if symptoms improve?
Still call 000 and keep the person under observation. Symptoms can return.
Independent editorial project. Guidance reviewed for Australian terminology and emergency escalation.