Allergic reactions may result from contact with any substance to which a person is allergic. Common causes are insect bites, foods and medicines.

Severe allergic reactions can cause people to die. You can help by knowing what to do.

• Swelling of the affected area, throat, mouth or face
• Redness of the skin or an itchy rash
• Breathing difficulty similar to an asthma attack
• Dizziness, weakness or collapse

• Call 111 for an ambulance if they have difficulty breathing or if they are very unwell
• Assist the patient to take any medicine they have been prescribed for severe allergy
• Lie the patient down if they are unwell or on their side if they are unconscious
• If they stop breathing, place them on their back and start CPR
• If the allergy follows exposure to a chemical, wash the contact area thoroughly with water

To test your knowledge and learn the basics of giving First Aid, why not try our free fun online programme at everydayhero.org.nz? For comprehensive First Aid information please refer to the St John Emergency Handbook. You can also ensure you are ready to help by completing a St John First Aid course.