Infectious Disease

 

Vaccinations may now seem routine, but infectious diseases are still the most common cause of death in children. Our research teams are evaluating new vaccines for a range of common diseases.
More common infections such as otitis media (glue ear) can cause life-long problems by impairing speech development and hearing, schooling and subsequent wellbeing.
Through the Institute’s Meningitis Centre  we are also working to raise awareness of symptoms, support survivors and advocate for ongoing research.

 

Meningitis is a frightening disease as it can kill within hours. We are looking at new vaccines for meningitis and providing information to families across Australia. Read more>>

We are investigating vaccines against the potentially-deadly pneumococcal disease both here and in Papua New Guinea. Read more>>

Influenza is often considered a mild disease but it can cause serious problems. We are testing new vaccines, including those against the ever-threatenting bird flu. Read more>>

 

We are looking at vaccinating babies at birth against whooping cough to protect them in the first crucial months of life.  Read more>>

 

Otitis media is the most common reason for children to visit a physician in the first years of life, for antibiotic treatment and for surgery in young chidlren.  Read more>>