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 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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Vomiting in children

Learn more about the causes of vomiting in children, and use these handy tips to help alleviate the symptoms.

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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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What does measles rash look like?

There have been several confirmed cases of measles acquired by people returning from overseas. Here's what you need to know about potentially deadly measles.

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

Cases of measles have risen by 30% globally, and in places where it was eradicated — including Australia. Now's the time to check your immunity to measles or get vaccinated.

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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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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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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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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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Mumps

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, most common in children between 5 and 15 years. These days it’s rare thanks to effective immunisation.

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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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Scabies

Scabies is caused by a tiny bug that burrows under the skin, causing intense itching and sometimes a rash. Read more about scabies causes and treatment.

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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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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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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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Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Known as 'pink eye', conjunctivitis is a contagious disease where the whites of the eye appear pink and may have a sticky discharge.

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

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Colds

A cold is a viral infection that affects the nose, the throat and upper airways. Find out more about the common cold.

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Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea may last for just a few days, or it might indicate something more serious. Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments for diarrhoea.

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Flu (influenza)

The flu is a viral infection affecting your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs. It is typically more severe than a cold. Find out more about the flu.

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Diarrhoea in children

Diarrhoea in children is very common, and when certain other symptoms are present, it may be serious. Find out here about the causes, symptoms and treatments.

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