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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Notification of illness and disease

Notifiable diseases require reporting to government health authorities. Learn why this is important and what information must be shared.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Vaccinations and pregnancy

Vaccination is especially important before and during pregnancy. Read on to learn why, as well as information on side effects and costs.

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Immunisation side effects

Immunisation side effects are unwanted effects that may happen after you get a vaccine. Learn how to treat mild adverse events after a vaccine.

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Immunisation and vaccinations for your child

Vaccinations and immunisation protect babies and children. Read more on why and when to vaccinate your child, and about side effects and costs.

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Immunisation or vaccination - what's the difference?

What's the difference between immunisation and vaccination? Find out how vaccines work and the difference between primary and booster doses.

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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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Immunisation and vaccinations

Immunisation and vaccinations are simple and effective preventative measures to help protect children and adults against harmful infections and diseases before they come into contact with them in the community.

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Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a disease that spreads through infected mosquitoes in areas of Africa, Central or South America. Learn about the yellow fever vaccine.

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Polio (poliomyelitis)

Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause paralysis and death. Learn about symptoms, treatment, and how vaccines prevent polio.

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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a rare but serious infection. Learn about Hib symptoms, treatment, and how the vaccine protects against it.

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Rotavirus infection

Rotavirus is a viral illness that can cause severe diarrhoea. Learn more about the cause, symptoms, prevention and treatment for rotavirus.

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Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease. Find out more about how to prevent infection, symptoms to watch out for and when to seek medical help.

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Meningitis

Meningitis can be a life-threatening illness requiring urgent medical treatment. Learn more about meningitis, including the common symptoms.

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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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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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Kids' health

Discover more about health topics relevant to kids and their parents and carers, such as fever and high temperature, medicines, vomiting, mental health and chickenpox.

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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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Typhoid and paratyphoid fever

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are diseases that are common in developing nations. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment for typhoid.

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Ebola virus

Ebola virus disease is a rare but often fatal illness. Find out more about Ebola transmission (spread), symptoms and treatment options.

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Travel vaccinations

Find out why vaccinations are important before you travel overseas. Learn about the vaccines you need to consider, their side effects and safety.

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How the HPV vaccine is eliminating cervical cancer in Australia

Australia could be the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer, thanks to the free HPV immunisation program and new Cervical Screening Test.

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