Month: May 2018

Autism – a lifelong condition

Health & Wellness

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how
people see their environment and relate to others. It is
characterised by differences in social communication and
behavioural patterns. People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
can often have difficulty understanding other people’s feelings,
and can therefore respond in a way that might seem unusual or
confusing. They may also not use gestures and body language in
the same way that other people do. There is a wide variation or
spectrum in how people are affected and what they may feel and
show.
People with autism spectrum disorder can also prefer routines and
things happening in a certain way, such as taking the same route
to school or to the shops, or they may line up toys in a particular
order. If there is a change in routine without warning or something
is out of place this may upset them. People with autism spectrum
disorder may also have increased sensitivity to their environment, and may find loud noises or bright lights upsetting. They often have certain interests in particular topics, and can have extensive knowledge in their area of special interest. They can also have an impressive memory
for detail. Read More >

Measles

Health & Wellness

Measles is a contagious viral illness that causes a skin rash and fever. Serious and sometimes fatal complications include pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation). Measles is also known as rubeola, not to be confused with rubella (German measles). Worldwide, measles is the fifth highest cause of illness and death in children.

Measles is rare in Australia because of the widespread use of the measles vaccine. It is important to continue immunising children in Australia, because there is a risk that the infection can be brought in by people arriving or returning from overseas.
Symptoms of measles
The signs and symptoms of measles may include:
fever
general discomfort, illness or lack of wellbeing (malaise)
runny nose
dry cough
sore and red eyes (conjunctivitis)
red and bluish spots inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
red and blotchy skin rash that appears first on the face and hairline, and then spreads to the body. Read More >