Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, but can also occur in adults. Here’s how to help ease symptoms and discomfort.

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Shingles

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. Here's how to recognise the symptoms and find the treatment that's best for you.

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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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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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Immunisation and pregnancy

During pregnancy, your immune system is naturally weaker than usual so are more susceptible to certain infections and illnesses which can be harmful to you and your developing baby.

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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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Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the balancing centre in your inner ear. Here’s how it may come about, symptoms to look out for and treatment options.

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Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection caused by a virus. Learn more about its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

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Differences between bacterial and viral infection

Bacterial and viral infections must be treated differently. Misusing antibiotics to treat viral infections leads to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

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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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Encephalitis

Encephalitis is a serious brain condition usually caused by a virus. If you think or your child may have encephalitis, seek medical attention straight away.

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Heart transplants

A heart transplant is an operation to replace a damaged heart with a healthy donor heart. Learn about waiting lists and life after a transplant.

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What's the difference between food allergy and intolerance — and other health concepts?

Wonder why psychiatrists and psychologists are different? Did you know that prebiotics and probiotics are not the same? Learn the differences between those things, and more.

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Kawasaki disease

Kawasaki disease is a rare condition mostly affecting children. It causes fever and inflammation of the blood vessels, but most kids recover without long-term problems.

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Obesity at conception linked to pregnancy complications

Women should lose weight before getting pregnant if they're obese or overweight, experts say, as excess weight at conception is linked to pregnancy complications.

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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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Travel vaccinations

Learn about why vaccinations are important before you travel.

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Kidney transplants

A kidney transplant is considered a long-term alternative to kidney dialysis. Find out what you need to consider before having the procedure.

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Colds and flu

Find out more about how to treat the cold or flu, how to avoid catching the cold or the flu, and special information on being ill during pregnancy and looking babies and children with a cold or flu.

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Immunisation for your child

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting children against certain diseases. Discover more about childhood vaccinations.

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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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Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, often caused by bacteria or viruses. It can be mild or very serious. Learn more about the illness.

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