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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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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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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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 mosquitos 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 dangerous infection. It is rare in Australia, due to routine vaccination of babies. Learn about Hib symptoms.

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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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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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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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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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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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Smallpox

Smallpox is a highly infectious disease, eradicated worldwide by successful vaccination. Read about prevention and its relationship to mpox.

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Travel health advice

Going overseas? Here are some tips on how to stay well during your holiday, including tips on food and water safety, insect risks and vaccinations.

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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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Healthy holiday tips — infographic

It’s important to think about your health as you prepare for a trip. Save and print this infographic for useful advice and what to consider.

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COVID-19 vaccine FAQs

COVID-19 vaccination can help protect you against severe disease and hospitalisation. See how often you should be getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

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