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, but knowing about symptoms will help you care for your child and know whether their condition is more serious.
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Chickenpox (varicella)
Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, although it can also occur in adults and is occasionally serious. Here’s how to help ease the symptoms.
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Hand, foot and mouth disease prevention
The best way to prevent hand, foot and mouth disease from spreading is to practise good hygiene.
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Hand, foot and mouth disease symptoms
How to look for the signs and symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease, as well as a more serious infection.
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Hand, foot and mouth disease treatment
There is no treatment to kill the coxsackievirus that causes hand, foot and mouth disease. The symptoms usually clear up in 7 to 10 days.
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Hand, foot and mouth disease diagnosis
Your doctor can usually diagnose hand, foot and mouth disease based on age, symptoms and the appearance of sores. Laboratory tests, such as blood tests, are not usually needed.
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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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Children's medicines
Children don't always need medicine to treat illnesses. But if you do need to give your child medicine, here are some useful tips.
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