Pneumococcal diseases are caused by a common bacterium called Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus). The pneumococcus bacterium has approximately 90 known serotypes, only some of which commonly cause disease. Eleven serotypes are responsible for most of the disease in infants across the globe, with seven serotypes accounting for the majority of diseases in developed countries. The...

The most common craniofacial problem today is called plagiocephaly, literally meaning oblique head. Deformational plagiocephaly, also known as positional plagiocephaly, refers to a misshapen (asymmetrical) head shape. This skull deformity results from repeated external pressure to an infant's skull due to the head being in one position for extended periods (eg in a cot or...

The prevalence of asthma is increasing in western countries. Over two million Australians suffer with asthma, and one in every four to five children will have some asthma symptoms at some stage.

Over the counter (OTC) medications are commonly used in the community. It is thought by many that they are safe because they are freely available and not regulated by prescription. However, many are of unproven benefit, some preparations do more harm than good, others are toxic in overdose and interactions between OTC preparations and prescription...

This first portion of this issue looks at normal sleep patterns in the first year of life, sleep problems, co-sleeping and ways of ameliorating sleep problems. The second portion looks specifically at sleep problems including what parents can do, suggestions for bedtime problems and suggestions for ongoing or severe problems.