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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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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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects children under 10 years old but can also affect older children and adults.

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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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What do paediatricians do?

Paediatricians provide care for babies, kids and teenagers. Ask them about childhood illnesses and physical, mental and behavioural development.

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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 rash. Read more about roseola and when to seek urgent medical help.

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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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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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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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Croup

Croup is very common in children under 5 years old. Learn about croup symptoms, treatment, and when to seek urgent medical help.

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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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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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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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Human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs)

HPIVs infect the respiratory tract and have symptoms like a cold. They spread via coughs and sneezes. Children and immunocompromised are at higher risk.

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School exclusion for health reasons

Kids with certain infectious diseases must stay away from school or childcare. Find out how exclusions work and when your child can return to school.

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Threadworms (pinworms)

Threadworms live in your intestines and cause an itchy anus (bottom). Learn more about the symptoms, treatment and prevention of worms.

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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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Enterovirus in children

Enteroviruses cause a range of illnesses which are usually mild. You can help prevent the spread of enterovirus infection by practising good hygiene.

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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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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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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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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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