A New Baby – How to Prepare   By Midwife Cath   When you are pregnant it seems like everyone has a comment or story – especially about labour and birth – and it’s generally not a story that offers you the reassurance you are most looking for.   But remember, you are in safe […]

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meningococcal infection

A bacterial infection that can start without warning and become very serious, very quickly, meningococcal infection can cause permanent disabilities and death. One in ten people with meningococcal will die. You must go straight to the ER of your nearest hospital if you suspect your child may have a meningococcal infection.   signs and symptoms […]

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Mumps

Thanks to the MMR/MMRV vaccine, mumps is not common in Australia, but outbreaks still occur, and serious complications such as meningitis, hepatitis, encephalitis and myocarditis can follow. It’s also highly contagious, and is carried in the urine as well as via sneezing and cough droplets.   Signs and symptoms   -Fever, headache, fatigue. -Weight loss. […]

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Chicken Pox

Chicken Pox infection generally occurs between 10-21 days after your child has been exposed to someone with the virus. Children with the chicken pox virus (varicella) are infectious one to two days before the rash appears, which makes it harder to prevent the spread of the virus. Complications are rare, but can be serious. You […]

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Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that poses a serious risk to babies. A high pitched ‘whooping sound’ can be heard during coughing spells, which can be long and painful. Babies under six months of age who contract whooping cough face a high risk of life-threatening complications. It is extremely important that your […]

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Measles

Measles causes a distinctive red and blotchy rash that starts on the head and then progresses to the rest of the body. A viral infection that usually resolves on it’s own after around 5-7 days, it is best treated with plenty of rest, fluids, and paracetamol or ibuprofen. While complications are uncommon, they can be […]

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