Children Archives - Illawarra Medical Centre https://illawarramedical.com.au/category/children/ Providing superior health care to families and local businesses in the Ballajura area for more than 25 years Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:35:53 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 New nasal flu vaccine available for kids https://illawarramedical.com.au/new-nasal-flu-vaccine-available-for-kids/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-nasal-flu-vaccine-available-for-kids Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:11:45 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=9326 Getting your kids vaccinated against the flu each year can sometimes be tricky, particularly if you have a child who doesn’t like needles. The good news is that this year, some Australian children will have the option to receive a new, needle-free nasal flu vaccine, thanks to the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s recent registration of FluMist®. […]

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Getting your kids vaccinated against the flu each year can sometimes be tricky, particularly if you have a child who doesn’t like needles.

The good news is that this year, some Australian children will have the option to receive a new, needle-free nasal flu vaccine, thanks to the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s recent registration of FluMist®.

In Western Australia, FluMist® will be available free for children aged from 2 to 11 years, through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). 

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at this new vaccine and the outlook for this year’s flu season.

What is the flu?

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that can often be mistaken for a common cold. However, flu tends to last longer and be more debilitating.

Most people experience symptoms, such as:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Tiredness
  • General aches and pains

Children, however, can experience more uncommon symptoms, including:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea

Influenza can cause severe illness or death, particularly among high-risk groups, including children under five, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions.

Flu Vaccines

The flu vaccine is recommended for every Australian aged 6 months and over.

Those at greatest risk of serious complications from influenza are eligible to receive the vaccine for free, through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP), including:

  • Children aged 6 months to <5 years
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
  • Adults aged 65 years and over
  • Pregnant women
  • Anyone aged 6 months and over who has:
    • heart disease
    • severe asthma (requiring frequent medical consultations or use of multiple medications)
    • chronic lung conditions
    • diseases of the nervous system that affect breathing
    • impaired immunity
    • diabetes
    • kidney disease
    • haemoglobinopathies
    • children aged 6 months to 10 years on long-term aspirin therapy

Vaccination is also strongly recommended for those who:

  • Work in certain jobs and industries (including aged care and health care)
  • Travel to certain countries
  • Are planning a pregnancy

As the strain of flu changes every year, so too does the influenza vaccine. That is why it’s important to get vaccinated each year.

This year, we are seeing a new, fast-moving strain of influenza dubbed “Super-K” circulating earlier than normal, with high case numbers already experienced in a number of areas throughout Australia.

Staying up-to-date with your vaccines is vital, as it helps to reduce the spread of these viruses and protects your family and the wider community, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

Nasal vaccines

This flu season, for the first time ever, WA children aged from 2 to 11 years will be eligible for the Flu Mist® vaccine.

FluMist® is a needle-free influenza vaccine that is administered via a quick nasal spray containing small amounts of weakened influenza viruses. These viruses work by mimicking a natural infection to help build immunity, and the vaccine remains effective even if a child sneezes shortly after administration.

FluMist® offers a safe, child-friendly alternative to traditional injections and is designed to increase vaccination uptake amongst this cohort.

According to the WA Department of Health, only 17 per cent of Western Australian children in this age group are currently vaccinated against influenza.

Given that 2025 saw a large increase in the number influenza cases nationally, and the highest number of influenza-related deaths this century, increased vaccination rates will be crucial to protect children, vulnerable populations, and the wider community from severe illness this year.

Are flu vaccines safe?

Yes. Flu vaccines given in Australia are perfectly safe. You cannot get influenza from having the influenza vaccine, as it is made from the killed virus, not living viruses.

Like any vaccine, it is possible that some people may experience a reaction; however, the risk of the flu vaccine causing serious harm is very low.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to each year’s new influenza vaccine in young children.

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds into the AusVaxSafety program.

When is the best time to get vaccinated?

As it can take up to two weeks to develop immunity, it is generally recommended to get your flu vaccine in the autumn months of April and May, so that you are protected in time for the peak influenza season, which normally occurs in winter.

Flu vaccines in Australia will be available from April and people are encouraged to get vaccinated sooner rather than later.

Flu Clinics at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre will run flu vaccination clinics at our practice again this year, as soon as stocks become available, so keep an eye out for details over the coming weeks!

Bookings will be essential for these clinics. Please visit the website or contact us on (08) 9208 6400 for further details or to make a booking.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Why we need to vaccinate newborns against hepatitis B https://illawarramedical.com.au/why-we-need-to-vaccinate-newborns-against-hepatitis-b/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-we-need-to-vaccinate-newborns-against-hepatitis-b Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:31:06 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=9170 The recent decision in the US regarding routine vaccinations for newborns against the hepatitis B virus has raised concerns and fears of a resurgence of the disease. Here in Australia, hepatitis B vaccinations are given to all babies at birth, as part of the National Immunisation Program Schedule. In this month’s blog, we take a […]

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The recent decision in the US regarding routine vaccinations for newborns against the hepatitis B virus has raised concerns and fears of a resurgence of the disease.

Here in Australia, hepatitis B vaccinations are given to all babies at birth, as part of the National Immunisation Program Schedule.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at the disease and why it’s important to continue to vaccinate newborns against the virus.

What is hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It can be acute, only affecting people for a short amount of time, or chronic, with long-term effects that can potentially lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis, and death.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 254 million people currently living with chronic infections, with around 1.2 million new infections detected every year.

While treatment is available to help reduce the progress of liver damage and loss of liver function, people with chronic hepatitis B will still need to be monitored every 6-12 months by their GP for signs and symptoms of liver disease.

It is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, vaginal fluids, and semen. It can also spread through needlestick injury, tattooing and piercing.

The most common forms of transmission, however come via mother to child at birth. Children are also at risk of transmission from household contacts or through contact with other children who are infected, particularly during the first five years of life. As the disease can survive for a week on household surfaces, the disease can pass on through something as simple as sharing the same toothbrush as an infected person.

A child who contracts chronic hepatitis B has an increased risk of developing chronic liver disease and cancer later in life. In fact, a 2018 report from the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that 70% to 90% of unvaccinated infants born to infected mothers will become infected themselves, and 90% of those infections will become chronic.

It is for this reason that the World Health Organization recommends that children receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine at birth.

Why do we vaccinate newborns against hepatitis B?

Vaccinating babies at birth remains one of the best ways to keep children protected from this lifelong, deadly disease.

Globally, 117 countries have introduced a dose of hepatitis B vaccine to newborns within the first 24 hours of life.

In Australia, every baby born since 2000 has been eligible to receive a free vaccine at birth, with further doses given at 2, 4 and 6 months of age. Full protection against hepatitis B requires a three-dose vaccine series, given at specific intervals in infancy. Anything short of this can leave children vulnerable to the virus for life.

This vaccination program has been a great success, with newborn vaccination rates remaining steady at between 92%-95% every year and newly acquired infections reducing by two thirds between 2000 and 2019.

From 2014 to 2023, the program also led to a 60% decline in cases for those aged under 20.

In America, it is a similar story, with a 95% reduction in hepatitis B infection rates resulting in less than 1,000 children or adolescents contracting the virus each year. In fact, America’s vaccination program has seen it come within reach of eliminating infections all together. So why have recommendations changed in the US?

Recent changes in the US

A newly appointed committee who advises on immunisation practices in the US recently changed the recommendation on hepatitis B vaccine at birth to apply only to those newborns whose mothers test positive for the virus. For those who test negative, it is now recommended that they consult their health care provider to make individualised decisions on whether or not to administer the vaccine to their newborn.

This change is not based on any new evidence and causes some concern, particularly as we know that delaying the first dose of the vaccine puts children at greater risk of chronic infection.

Almost one-third of people with hepatitis B do not know that they are infected. While screening is recommended for all pregnant women, not all mothers are tested during pregnancy.

Even if mothers are tested, there is still the risk that they can become infected after testing has occurred. There is also the risk that newborns can be exposed to the disease through contact with other family members who haven’t been tested and/or are unaware that they have the virus. That’s why the newborn vaccination dose is so important to help prevent newborns developing the infection at birth.

The good news for Australia is that there are no changes to our vaccination program and the hepatitis B vaccination remains in place for all Australian newborns.

Is the newborn vaccine safe?

Yes. The hepatitis vaccine has been safely given to millions of newborns across the world within the first 24 hours of life.

Like any vaccine, some newborns may experience a reaction but the risk of serious harm is very low. Infants are more likely to experience mild side effects, if any, including pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, which will usually last no more than a day or two.

Vaccination remains one of the most successful and cost-effective public health measures worldwide and has helped protect many people from many serious infectious diseases.

Over the past 50 years, childhood vaccines alone have prevented 154 million deaths globally – the vast majority in children under five.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the TGA. We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to all vaccines on the National Immunisation Program.

You can find out more about the safety of vaccines given in Australia here>>

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we also utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds that information into the AusVaxSafety program.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> New RSV Vaccine for Pregnancy https://illawarramedical.com.au/new-rsv-vaccine-for-pregnancy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-rsv-vaccine-for-pregnancy Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:10:52 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=8585 Following last year’s introduction of new Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines for older adults and young children, the Australian Government last month introduced a new, free RSV immunisation program for pregnant women. RSV is a serious disease for newborn babies and infants. Vaccination during pregnancy allows pregnant women to pass antibodies to their baby through […]

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Following last year’s introduction of new Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines for older adults and young children, the Australian Government last month introduced a new, free RSV immunisation program for pregnant women.

RSV is a serious disease for newborn babies and infants. Vaccination during pregnancy allows pregnant women to pass antibodies to their baby through the placenta to better protect this high risk group.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at the new maternal RSV program and other recommended vaccines for pregnant women.

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the airways and lungs and commonly causes coughs and colds during winter.

The virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through respiratory droplets released into the air by an infected person coughing, sneezing or talking, or through people touching contaminated surfaces and transferring the virus to their eyes, nose or mouth. It can also spread through hand-to-hand contact with an infected person.

RSV can lead to life-threatening complications, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Those most at risk of serious complications include:

  • Infants aged 12 months and under – especially those aged 6 months and under.
  • Children aged 2 years and under with medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease.
  • Children aged 2 years and under who were born pre-term or with a low birth weight.

Maternal RSV vaccination program

Up until 2024, there were no vaccines available in Australia to help prevent RSV. In 2024, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved a number of vaccines for those most at risk, including a vaccine for adults aged 60 years and over, and one for babies and infants.

Following last year’s successful introduction of the infant vaccine, Nirsevimab (or Beyfortus), the Australian Government recently announced the introduction of the maternal RSV vaccine – Abrysvo®.

This new vaccine has been made available for free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for women who are between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, to help protect their newborn baby from RSV.

How does the maternal RSV vaccine work?

When a pregnant woman receives the maternal RSV vaccine, their immune system produces antibodies against the disease in the first couple of weeks after vaccination. These antibodies are transferred through the placenta to the baby’s bloodstream. The antibodies help protect the infant against RSV from birth.

The process of providing antibodies from mother to baby is a form of passive immunisation and provides protection to the infant for up to 6 months from birth.

The Abrysvo vaccine cannot cause RSV and most side effects experienced are mild. As noted by the WA Government Department of Health, research has shown no difference in the rates of serious adverse events in pregnant women or infants born to pregnant women who receive Abrysvo compared to those who received a placebo.

This vaccine has already been approved for use in the United States of America and research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that, when given to pregnant women, the vaccine was 81.8% effective in preventing severe disease within 90 days of birth and 69.4% effective in preventing severe disease within 180 days of birth.

More information on the maternal RSV vaccination program is available here>>

What other vaccines are recommended during pregnancy?

Other vaccines recommended during pregnancy include ones for influenza and whooping cough – diseases that cause serious harm to pregnant women and their unborn babies. Both of these vaccines are available free to pregnant women through the NIP.

The influenza vaccine is available at any stage of pregnancy. As babies under 6 months are too young to have the vaccine themselves, the best way to protect newborns from influenza is for mothers to have the vaccine during pregnancy.

Similarly, babies do not receive their first whooping cough vaccination until they are six weeks of age. Therefore, the best protection for newborns is for mothers to be vaccinated prior to delivery.

The whooping cough vaccine is recommended for every pregnancy between 20 and 32 weeks, and can be given up to the time of delivery.

This brochure from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care provides further information on recommended vaccines during pregnancy>>

Are vaccines safe?

Yes. Vaccines given in Australia are perfectly safe and you cannot get the virus from having the relevant vaccine.

Like any vaccine, it is possible that some people may experience a reaction; however, the risk of the vaccines causing serious harm is very low. Some people may experience mild side effects, including reactions at the injection site (redness, swelling, and pain where the injection is given), fever and fatigue.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the TGA. We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to all vaccines on the National Immunisation Program.

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds that information into the AusVaxSafety program.

Vaccinations at IMC

All recommended maternal vaccines are available at Illawarra Medical Centre. To book in for your vaccine or discuss and questions or concerns you may have, book an appointment with one of our GPs. Bookings can be made online or by contacting us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> COVID-19 Vaccines and Children https://illawarramedical.com.au/covid-19-vaccines-and-children/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=covid-19-vaccines-and-children Mon, 20 Dec 2021 09:30:33 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=5183 The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recently approved COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years from 10 January 2022. This follows on from the introduction of vaccines for those aged 12-15 years in September this year. As the vaccine rollout extends to these younger age groups, it’s natural for parents and children alike […]

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The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recently approved COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years from 10 January 2022. This follows on from the introduction of vaccines for those aged 12-15 years in September this year. As the vaccine rollout extends to these younger age groups, it’s natural for parents and children alike to be curious about what the risks and benefits are for children.

In this month’s blog, we look at some of the questions people may have about COVID-19 vaccines for children.

Are children at risk of getting COVID-19?

Yes, children are at risk of getting COVID-19. The good news, however, is that they appear far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from the virus.

The Australian Government Department of Health reports that there have been over 70,000 cases and three deaths from COVID-19 in Australian children aged 0-19 since the country recorded its first reported case.

National data from January to August this year shows 2.5% of children aged up to nine and 2.9% of children and teenagers aged 10-19 who contracted COVID-19 were hospitalised with the virus.

On a global scale, it also appears that very few children infected with COVID-19 require hospitalisation and even fewer require ICU or die from the virus.

However, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 remains a major risk around the world and while children seem to be at less risk of getting seriously ill from the virus, they still have the ability to pass it onto others who are more at risk.

How does COVID-19 affect children?

Most children who get COVID-19 have a mild infection that resembles a common cold or flu. Some children show no symptoms at all.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 in children include:

  • Fever
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
  • Poor oral intake and dehydration

It’s important to get your child tested if they show any of these symptoms. If your child experiences worsening symptoms or you are concerned, contact your GP or seek medical care. In the case of an emergency, phone 000 and request an ambulance.

Why have children now been included in the vaccine rollout?

With new variants, increasing case numbers and state and international borders opening up in Australia, more children are now getting the virus.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) approval to expand COVID-19 vaccinations to children aged 5 years and over was based on careful evaluation of the available data to support its safety and efficacy among this age group.

Vaccinating younger children and adolescents is an important step in Australia reaching herd immunity and it remains the most important way we can protect ourselves, our families and the wider community from the spread of COVID-19.

That’s why vaccination remains a priority for all, as it protects the small percentage of young people with underlying health issues and also means children are less likely to transmit it to others.

Which vaccines will children receive?

Children aged 5-11 years old have been approved to receive a two-dose primary dose of the Pfizer (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccine, from 10 January 2022. The vaccine dose for this age group is rtp slot one-third the size approved for people aged 12 and over.

Those aged 12 years and over have been approved to receive either the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine. Two doses of the vaccines are required for optimal protection. The two doses are given at least 3-6 weeks apart for Pfizer vaccines and 4-5 weeks apart for Moderna vaccines.

Clinical trials of these vaccines in children have shown them to provide excellent protection against COVID-19 in adolescents.

To find out more information about these vaccines, visit the WA Health Department website>>

Are COVID vaccines safe for children?

Clinical trials and real world studies have shown that COVID-19 vaccines approved for children and adolescents are very safe.

All vaccines used in Australia, including those used to protect against COVID-19, are thoroughly tested and monitored to ensure their ongoing safety.

In addition, tens of millions of adolescents have been vaccinated in countries that are closely monitoring and reporting on vaccine safety, including the USA, Europe, Canada, Israel, Singapore and Japan.

COVID-19 vaccine side effects in children

Children may experience mild side effects after vaccination, but these usually resolve within 48 hours. The most common side effects following immunisation are:

  • Pain, redness, swelling or itching at the injection site
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Fever

Some people, including children, have experienced serious side effects from COVID-19 vaccines, such as anaphylaxis, myocarditis and pericarditis.

Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. Pericarditis is inflammation of the outer lining of the heart. Myopericarditis is where these two conditions occur together.

These conditions are very rare and most children and adults who experience them as a result of COVID-19 vaccination recover quickly, with minimal or no treatment required.

Symptoms can include:

  • Chest pain
  • Pressure of discomfort palpitations (irregular heartbeat, skipped beats or ‘fluttering’)
  • Fainting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain when breathing

These symptoms normally appear within 1-5 days of vaccination and are usually mild. However, if your child does experience any of these symptoms, please seek prompt medical attention.

Further information on these conditions is available from ATAGI>>

If you are concerned about any symptoms following vaccination, you should seek advice from your doctor. If you believe your reaction is severe or life threatening, please phone 000 for an ambulance or go to your closest emergency department.

For the latest information on COVID-19 vaccine safety data in Australia, visit AusVaxSafety>>

Book in for your COVID-19 vaccine

Illawarra Medical Centre is an approved provider of COVID-19 vaccines and will be providing vaccines for children aged 5 and over from 10 January 2022. To book in for your vaccination with us, make an appointment online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

If you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19 vaccines or your current available vaccine options, please book a regular appointment with your GP to discuss prior to making your vaccination booking.

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Vaccines page

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Mental health – it starts with our children https://illawarramedical.com.au/mental-health-it-starts-with-our-children/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mental-health-it-starts-with-our-children Thu, 30 Sep 2021 07:41:19 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=4937 As we head towards Mental Health month in October, and this year’s Mental Health Week (9-16 October) theme of “mental health starts with our children”, we thought we’d take a closer look at children’s mental health in Australia. What is Mental Health? According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is defined as “a state […]

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As we head towards Mental Health month in October, and this year’s Mental Health Week (9-16 October) theme of “mental health starts with our children”, we thought we’d take a closer look at children’s mental health in Australia.

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What is Mental Health?

According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is defined as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

The early years of life are critical for brain development and functioning, learning and wellbeing. From very early on, children are shaped and influenced by a range of social, biological and environmental factors – all of which can impact on their mental health throughout life.

For infants and children, good mental health is just as important as physical health to their overall long-term health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Sound mental health provides an essential foundation of stability which can support all other aspects of human development, including the ability to form friendships, cope with adversity, and achieve success in school, work and community life.

This video from Harvard University’s Centre on the Developing Child explains just how important those early childhood relationships and interactions are for mental health>>

Childhood Mental Health – The Stats

While the Australian Government’s report into the health welfare of Australian children notes that most kids are healthy, safe and doing well, it also reports that mental health conditions are impacting 314,000 (or close to 14 per cent) children aged 4-11 years, with boys more commonly affected than girls.

There are a number of factors impacting on the mental health of Australia’s children, including:

  • Parent Mental Health – 25% of young Australians grow up in a household where a parent of caregiver experiences mental illness.
  • Family Violence – research suggests that 25% of children are exposed to family violence.
  • Parent Alcohol Use – 13% of Australian children live in a household with at least one parent binge drinking.
  • Sleep Patterns – 30% of 7-18 year olds report lack of sleep, high levels of stress and depressive symptoms.

In Australia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common disorder for children, with anxiety and depressive disorders being the second and third most common disorders experienced by children.

ADHD is a developmental disorder that begins in early childhood. Children with ADHD may find it hard to concentrate and may become hyperactive to the point where the condition can interfere with their schooling, friendship or family life.

Anxiety is a normal part of childhood. Most of the time, worries are short-lived and will go away. However, when a child’s anxiety stops them from getting the most out of life or they start to experience avoidance behaviours and/or physical symptoms (such as headaches and stomach aches or trouble sleeping); it could be a sign of something more serious.

Depression is another common disorder in children and is more likely to occur in the years leading up to puberty. It can often be linked to stressful triggers such as family difficulties, the birth of a sibling, social changes from moving to a new house or school, or bullying. The signs of depression in children include:

  • being very sad or cranky for a few weeks;
  • losing interest in normal daily activities;
  • being more negative than usual; and
  • having sad thoughts and feelings that stop them enjoying life.

Impact of COVID-19 on Child Mental Health

The last two years of living with a pandemic have challenged even the toughest and strongest of minds, but what impact has living with the constant uncertainty and change around COVID-19, as well as lockdowns and reduced social interaction, had on our children and their mental health?

A National Youth Mental Health Survey conducted by headspace in 2020 found that COVID-19 appeared to have an impact on young people’s wellbeing, with those in the 12-14 and 22-25 year age groups reporting a decline in their ability to carry out daily activities and cope with stress.

Another report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare notes that, compared with older age groups, young people have experienced high rates of psychological distress, loneliness, educational disruption, unemployment, housing stress and domestic violence throughout the pandemic. 

The demand for services providing phone and online support for children (such as Kids Helpline) has also increased substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How can we help children maintain good mental health?

The most important factor influencing any child’s mental health and wellbeing is having long lasting, safe and secure relationships with their family, including extended family and carers.

Just as with adults, other factors that can help children improve their mental health and prevent mental health issues from developing include:

  • Getting enough sleep.
  • Eating well.
  • Getting enough regular physical activity.
  • Maintaining consistent routines and social interactions.
  • Creating a supportive environment by spending time together with friends and family.
  • Encouraging open discussions about feelings, concerns and/or worries

If you do have any concerns about your child’s mental health, then speak to your GP who can make suggestions or refer you to other healthcare professionals for additional support, if required.

You may also find this checklist from Beyond Blue helpful>>

To make an appointment with any of our GPs at Illawarra Medical Centre, book online or phone us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> On a quest to stamp out Strep A https://illawarramedical.com.au/on-a-quest-to-stamp-out-strep-a/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=on-a-quest-to-stamp-out-strep-a Tue, 24 Aug 2021 12:33:09 +0000 https://illawarramedical.com.au/?p=4863 A sore throat is one of the most common reasons for patients, particularly children, to visit their GP. In a large number of these cases, the sore throat is caused by Strep A bacteria which can lead to severe diseases, if left untreated. In fact, Strep A infections are a major cause of illness and […]

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A sore throat is one of the most common reasons for patients, particularly children, to visit their GP. In a large number of these cases, the sore throat is caused by Strep A bacteria which can lead to severe diseases, if left untreated.

In fact, Strep A infections are a major cause of illness and death throughout the world each year. Illawarra Medical Centre has recently partnered with the Australian Strep A Vaccine Initiative (ASAVI) to help researchers learn more about what causes sore throats and how a vaccine may be developed to help prevent Strep A in the future.

What is Strep A?

Streptococcus A, or Strep A for short, is a bacteria also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacteria is often responsible for mild infections, such as pharyngitis (better known as sore throat or strep throat), scarlet fever, and impetigo (commonly known as skin sores).

Strep A infections are highly contagious and are usually passed directly from person to person through talking, coughing or sneezing. It is very common in school-age children, with one in 10 children having the bacteria in their throats at any one time.

When left untreated, Strep A can lead to severe diseases which can cause heart and kidney failure. One of the most severe diseases to result from Strep A is rheumatic heart disease, which involves damage to one or more of the four small heart valves and can often require heart surgery in more severe cases.

Strep A can become life threatening very quickly if the bacteria invades the body’s blood stream, muscles or lungs. This video from the Telethon Kids Institute shows just how quickly that can occur>>

What are the symptoms of Strep A?

The common symptoms of a Strep A infection include:

  • sore, red throat and tonsils;
  • pain when swallowing;
  • fever;
  • chills;
  • headache;
  • muscle aches and pains;
  • feeling tired;
  • swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck; and
  • loss of appetite.

Preventing Strep A

The best way to help prevent the spread of Strep A is to continue the good hygiene practices that we’ve all become accustomed to during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:

  • Avoid close contact with other people until you feel well.
  • Use tissues when you cough and dispose of them carefully and straight away.
  • Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, especially after you cough and before touching food, dishes, glasses, eating utensils etc.
  • Do not share food, drinking cups, eating utensils or hand towels with others.
  • Do not prepare food for others if you are unwell.
  • Do not go to day care, school or work until you are no longer contagious.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine currently available to help prevent Strep A. However, the Australia Strep A Vaccine Initiative (ASAVI), led by researchers from the Telethon Kids Institute and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI), is currently looking at sore throats in children, as an important first step towards a vaccine for Strep A.

About the ASAVI Sore Throat Study

The ASAVI Sore Throat Study is open to children aged 3-14 years old and will help researcher learn more about:

  • how many children get sore throats;
  • what is the most common cause of sore throat in children;
  • how sore throats can change during the different seasons of the year; and
  • how a vaccine could be used to prevent sore throats caused by Strep A bacteria.

Children taking part in the study will have their health monitored for 12 months. The study uses cutting edge technology to diagnose sore throats. This means that a child’s sore throat can be diagnosed within minutes of a visit to their local GP, so that the best possible treatment can be provided.

Illawarra Medical Centre is one of the general practices participating in this important study, which is currently looking for participants.

If you and your child would like to take part, please speak with one of our GPs or contact ASAVI on 0422 581 816 or email sorethroatstudy@telethonkids.org.au. To find out more visit the ASAVI website>>

For more information on this topic, visit:

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]]> Get a healthy start back to school https://illawarramedical.com.au/get-a-healthy-start-back-to-school/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=get-a-healthy-start-back-to-school Mon, 20 Jan 2020 04:47:58 +0000 http://43.250.249.65/~illawar7/?p=2876 You’ve made it through the festive season, enjoyed some time out with family and friends, and relaxed with long summer days at the beach. Now it’s time to start preparing the kids to go back to school! In this month’s blog, we give you some tips on how to help your children enjoy a healthy […]

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You’ve made it through the festive season, enjoyed some time out with family and friends, and relaxed with long summer days at the beach. Now it’s time to start preparing the kids to go back to school! In this month’s blog, we give you some tips on how to help your children enjoy a healthy and happy start to the new school year.

Whether your kids are starting their first year, last year, or any year in between, the new school year can bring with it a whole range of health challenges.

Common school health concerns
Some common health concerns for school-aged children include:

  1. Anxiety – starting school for the first time or going back to school after a long break can cause some anxiety for children. Just as with adults, stress and anxiety can negatively impact on your child’s health and often shows up as physical or behavioural changes. Be aware of any changes in your child’s behaviour and speak to your doctor if you are at all concerned.

  2. Germs – schools are a breeding ground for germs. Tummy troubles, skin rashes and coughs and colds can all spread quickly and easily in the school yard. Keeping your child home when they are sick and teaching them good hygiene habits – including proper hand washing, covering their nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, and not sharing food or water with friends – can all help to reduce the spread of infections at school.

3. Head Lice – more annoying than dangerous, these tiny, wingless insects live in the hair of humans and animals. While they don’t spread disease, they can cause itching and irritation and move easily between children’s heads. While lice are difficult to prevent, you can help reduce the risk of infestation by tying back long hair and encouraging your child to avoid head-to-head contact with other children.

If your child does get head lice, treat them straight away and notify the school as soon as possible in order to help prevent the spread to other children.

Healthy students are better learners
Healthy students are generally more alert, engaged and better able to concentrate and learn.

As noted by the US Centres for Disease Control and Protection (CDC), healthy students are better on all levels of academic achievement, including academic performance, education behaviour, and cognitive skills and attitudes.

Luckily, there are some easy health essentials you can put in place to help give your children a healthy start to the new school year.

  1. Vaccinate – vaccinations are an important way to protect you, your family and the wider community from a range of diseases. All schools in Western Australia have immunisation requirements for enrolment. Be sure to check with your school what their immunisation requirements are and make sure your child is up-to-date with their vaccinations before starting school.

  2. Get your Action Plans in place – if your child has been diagnosed with asthma, allergies or eczema, make sure you have an up-to-date Action Plan available to provide to the school.
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Having an action plan in place helps all those who care for your child to better manage their condition and can help reduce the severity of an attack or reaction. Speak to your GP or health professional if you have any specific questions or concerns about your child’s asthma, allergies and/or eczema.

3. Sleep well – it’s easy to be a bit more relaxed with bedtimes during the summer holidays, but getting your child back into a good sleep routine before school goes back will set them up for a good start to the school year. Sleep is important for both your child’s physical and emotional health. School aged children generally need between 9 and 11 hours’ sleep per night.

4. Eat well – a diet filled with a variety of foods containing a range of nutrients is essential for children’s growth and learning.

Given that 30% of your child’s daily food intake will be consumed at school, it’s important to ensure your child has a healthy, nutritious lunch box each day.

5. Get moving – Australian Department of Health Guidelines recommend children aged 5 to 17 get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day, involving mainly aerobic activities.

The summer holidays are a great time to enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

Being physically active is not only good for your child’s physical health, it can also help reduce anxiety and allow them to maintain focus once they’re back at school.

6. Choose the right backpack – from school books to lunch boxes to show and tell items, kids carry a lot in their backpacks these days.

An ill-fitting backpack can negatively impact on their posture and gait and cause physical discomfort.

To prevent long-term neck and back problems, find a backpack that is the right size and fit for your child.

The Australian Spinal Research Foundation offers some useful tips in choosing the right school bag>>

Child health services at Illawarra Medical Centre
At Illawarra Medical Centre, we have a strong focus on children’s health care and can provide assessments and ongoing management for a range of child health services, including immunisations, feeding and diet advice, behavioural issues, chronic diseases such as eczema and warts, and general health checks.

To make a booking with one of our GPs to discuss any child health concerns you have or to get your child’s vaccinations and health care plans up-to-date, go to our online bookings page or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

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