What causes chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, but can also occur in adults. Here’s information on causes of chickenpox.

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Chickenpox prevention

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, but can also occur in adults. Here’s how to prevent the condition.

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Chickenpox symptoms

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

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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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Shingles treatments

Treatments are available to lessen the severity of shingles and to prevent complications - although there is no cure. Learn about the treatment options here.

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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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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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What causes meningitis?

Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Occasionally it’s caused by parasites or fungi. Find out how these bugs are spread, the difference between viral and bacterial meningitis and the importance of immunisation.

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The role of cortisol in the body

The role of cortisol is important and has many functions in your body. Find out what happens if you have too little or too much cortisol and the suggested treatment.

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Pneumonia prevention

There are vaccines which reduce the risk of getting pneumonia. Learn why vaccination is recommended as a prevention for people in at risk groups.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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