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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Molluscum contagiosum

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

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Travel vaccinations

Learn about why vaccinations are important before you travel.

Read more

Meningitis

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

Read more

Immunisation for your child

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

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more