common childhood illnesses
this is general health information, not medical advice. always consult your GP or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if you are concerned about your child.
kids get sick — a lot. the average child gets 6–8 colds a year, plus the usual round of gastro, ear infections, and everything else daycare throws at them. this guide covers the most common childhood illnesses, what to do at home, and when to see a doctor.
illness guides
croup
croup is a common childhood illness that causes swelling around the voice box and windpipe. it usually affects children between 6 months and 3 years, and is most common in autumn and winter. the distinctive barking cough often sounds worse than it is.
hand, foot & mouth disease
hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness in children under 5. it causes small blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. it's usually mild and clears up on its own within 7–10 days.
gastroenteritis (gastro)
gastro is an infection of the gut caused by viruses (most commonly rotavirus and norovirus), bacteria, or parasites. it causes vomiting and diarrhoea and can lead to dehydration, especially in young children. most cases resolve within a few days.
ear infection (otitis media)
ear infections are extremely common in children — about 75% of children will have at least one by age 3. they happen when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and becomes infected. they're more common after a cold.
chickenpox (varicella)
chickenpox is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. it causes an itchy rash of fluid-filled blisters. it's usually mild in children but can be more serious in babies, adults, and pregnant women. vaccination is available on the National Immunisation Program.
bronchiolitis
bronchiolitis is a common lower respiratory infection in babies and children under 2, usually caused by RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). it causes swelling and mucus build-up in the smallest airways (bronchioles). most cases are mild, but it can be serious in very young babies.
conjunctivitis (pink eye)
conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. it can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies. bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are very common in children and usually clear up without treatment.
tonsillitis
tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. it's very common in children between 5 and 15 years old. viral tonsillitis clears up on its own; bacterial tonsillitis (often strep throat) may need antibiotics.
exclusion period quick reference
| illness | contagious? | exclusion period |
|---|---|---|
| croup | yes | no exclusion required if well enough to attend |
| hand, foot & mouth disease | yes | exclude until all blisters have dried |
| gastroenteritis (gastro) | yes | exclude for 48 hours after last vomit or diarrhoea |
| ear infection (otitis media) | no | no exclusion required |
| chickenpox (varicella) | yes | exclude until all blisters have dried into crusts |
| bronchiolitis | yes | exclude while symptoms of acute illness are present |
| conjunctivitis (pink eye) | yes | exclude until discharge has stopped (or 24 hours after starting antibiotics) |
| tonsillitis | yes | exclude until well and at least 24 hours on antibiotics (if bacterial) |
related guides
this guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. if you are concerned about your child, see your GP, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84), or in an emergency call 000.