NSW Health has issued a warning for an outbreak of measles after an unvaccinated baby from South East Asia has contracted the disease in Sydney.

The Metro South Health Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles, in a child in the Brisbane area. The person was in a number of locations whilst unknowingly infectious. Residents in the Brisbane and Logan areas in particular need to be alert for symptoms.

The spread of certain infectious diseases can be reduced by excluding the child or Educator, known to be infectious, from contact with others who are at risk of catching the infection. The following information details the recommended exclusion periods for infectious diseases. These are based on how long a child/educator with a specific disease is likely to be infectious and to be excluded from the service until they have passed the exclusion period and well enough to return. 

For all NSW children between 6 months and 5 years old, free flu vaccinations will now be available. The program will target more than 400,000 children across the state.

Reports on a measles outbreak affecting children and families. Supports health awareness.

Measles is a serious disease that is easily spread through the air. Immunisation is effective in preventing the disease. All children and adults born during or after 1966 should be vaccinated with 2 doses of measles containing vaccine if not already immune.

Four children have been hospitalised after they contracted gastroenteritis at the same childcare centre in Sydney's lower north shore. 

According to the Australian Medical Association, Queensland is on the brink of an influenza epidemic with thousands of cases been diagnosed just this month (August). 

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a highly contagious virus that is spread by fluids produced during coughing and sneezing, or by direct contact with those fluids on surfaces. 

Whooping cough outbreaks have been on the rise across the country. Cases are up between of 100 to 300 percent across Australian states.