Symptoms of serious illness in babies and children

If your child has a serious illness, it's important to get medical attention quickly. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and what to do.

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Looking after a sick child

Mild illnesses are common in children. Learn how to care for your child and know when their condition is more serious and you need medical help.

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Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a mild childhood illness, that can also occur in adults. It is occasionally serious. Here's how you can prevent catching chickenpox.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness mainly affecting children under 10 years old but sometimes affecting older children and adults.

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Fifth disease (slapped cheek disease)

Fifth disease or 'slapped cheek disease' is a mild viral illness marked by a red rash that makes children's cheeks look like they've been slapped.

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School exclusion periods

If your child has an infectious illness, you may need to keep them home to stop it spreading at daycare or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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Childhood illnesses

Many childhood diseases spread easily between family members and at schools. Read on to learn more about causes, symptoms, treatments and when to see a doctor.

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Vaccine preventable diseases

Vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) — such as measles, mumps — can be prevented by an immunisation program. Learn more about VPDs in Australia.

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Shingles — infographic

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful blistering rash. This infographic provides you with information on the symptoms, treatments and vaccination.

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How do I know if I'm immune to measles?

You’re likely to be immune if you’re vaccinated against measles, or have already had measles. Learn more.

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What does measles rash look like?

Measles rash looks red or brown on white skin and may be harder to see on brown and black skin. The rash can be raised and appear blotchy. Learn more.

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Roseola infantum

Roseola infantum is a contagious viral infection. Symptoms include high fever and a rash. Read more about roseola and if you need urgent medical help.

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Croup

Croup is very common in children under 5 years old. Find out how croup is diagnosed and treated here.

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Mumps

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, which can cause facial swelling. Find out more about the symptoms, treatment and prevention of mumps.

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Measles

Measles is a very infectious viral disease. It’s spread via droplets in the air. Learn about the symptoms of measles and why vaccination is essential.

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Shingles

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. Here's how to recognise the symptoms, prevent shingles and get the best treatment for you.

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Show your support for families living with childhood cancer

It's estimated that 700 kids are diagnosed with childhood cancer each year. Learn more about supporting families that are living with cancer.

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Rubella (German measles)

Rubella (also known as German measles) is best prevented by the MMR vaccination. Learn more about its distinctive rash, other symptoms and treatments.

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Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection and is most serious in babies. Here's how to spot the symptoms and protect infants.

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Mesenteric adenitis

Mesenteric adenitis causes tummy pain due to swollen lymph nodes and is common in children under 16 years old. Learn about symptoms and treatment.

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Colds

A cold is an infection that affects your nose and throat. Find out about the common cold, including symptoms, treatment and when to see your doctor.

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Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Conjunctivitis (or pink eye) is a contagious disease where the whites of your eye appear pink and you may also have a sticky discharge.

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Threadworms (pinworms)

Threadworms infect children when eggs are transferred from their hands to their mouths. Learn the symptoms, treatment and prevention of threadworm.

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What do paediatricians do?

Paediatricians diagnose, treat and provide care for babies, kids and teenagers; including illnesses and physical, mental and behavioural development.

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Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea in adults may last a just few days, or it might be a symptom of something more serious. Learn about the causes and treatments for diarrhoea.

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Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis (‘gastro’) is an infection of the gut that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Learn here about gastro treatment and symptoms.

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Flu (influenza)

Influenza is a viral infection that affects your nose and throat. Find out more about the flu and how to protect yourself by getting vaccinated.

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Diarrhoea in children

Diarrhoea in children is very common. It can sometimes be serious. Read more here to find out about the causes, symptoms and treatments.

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