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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Impetigo

Impetigo, or school sores, is a highly contagious skin infection that causes sores and blisters. It's very common and affects mainly children.

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Fifth disease (Slapped cheek disease)

Fifth disease or 'slapped cheek disease' is a fairly mild viral illness that appears as 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 day-care or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects children under 5 years old, but can sometimes affect older children and adults.

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About coronaviruses

Coronaviruses can cause several illnesses, from the common cold to serious respiratory infections and pneumonia. Find out more about the symptoms here.

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Giardia (giardiasis)

Giardia is an infection of the bowel and gut, particularly the small intestine. Learn more about the cause and symptoms of giardia as well as prevention tips.

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Anxiety in children

Anxiety is a normal part of life that can sometimes affect children. Learn more about the signs of anxiety in children and how to help them.

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Toilet training

Most children start potty training between 2 and 3 years of age. Find out whether your child is ready with these helpful toilet training tips.

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Measles

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease, spread from person to person via droplets in the air. Learn about the symptoms and why vaccination is essential.

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Dealing with childhood (paediatric) cancer

If your child has been diagnosed with cancer, you will have physical, emotional and practical challenges ahead. Find out where to go for vital information and support.

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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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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous infection, although the routine vaccination of babies has meant it is now rare in Australia. Learn more here.

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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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What is a pandemic?

A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease, such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) or a new influenza virus. Here's what you need to know, including how epidemics are different.

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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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Strep throat

Strep throat is an infection of the throat caused by bacteria called Streptococci. Learn more about what it is, and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

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Staph infections

Are you at risk of a staph infection? Learn how to spot the signs and symptoms of different kinds of staph infection, and how to prevent and treat it.

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Norovirus infection

Norovirus is one of several viruses that cause gastroenteritis. It’s spread easily, but good hygiene practices can help protect both you and others. Learn more.

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What to do if you’re feeling stressed or helpless about the Australian bushfire crisis

Feeling stressed, scared or anxious about the Australian bushfires is normal, even if you’re not directly affected. Here's how to help yourself, and how to donate.

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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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E. coli infection

E. coli (or escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that causes both minor and severe illness. Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatments of E. coli here.

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Notification of illness and disease

‘Notifiable’ diseases are ones where government health authorities must be notified about occurrences. Learn why this is important and about the information.

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COVID-19 isolation and quarantine

Isolation and quarantine is vital for preventing the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. Here are answers to common questions about isolation.

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Domestic violence and abusive relationships

Domestic violence (or family violence) is when someone uses violence to maintain power over someone they’re close to. Learn about signs, effects and what you can do if you're in an abusive relationship.

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Managing COVID-19 at home

Find out how you can mange mild to moderate COVID-19 at home and what to do if your symptoms get worse.

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