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The veteran tuberculosis vaccine BCG has puzzled scientists for decades. Now, The Kids researchers have not only unlocked part of the secret to its success in saving the lives of newborns, but they’re at the forefront of global efforts to test its ability to fight COVID-19.

Kids born with Down syndrome are at high risk of an array of health problems – including issues with sight, hearing, heart defects, bone complications, immune disorders and learning difficulties.

Wiping out childhood ear infections could become a reality thanks to new research identifying the main bacteria responsible for recurrent ear infections and repeat ear surgeries.

Research

Bullying is now regarded as a health problem and not just a disciplinary problem. Increasing evidence shows both traditional bullying (e.g. hitting, teasing) and cyberbullying have lasting effects on young people (both those who bully and those who are bullied), including damage to self-esteem, academic results and mental health.

View the full catalogue of The Kids Research Institute Australia COVID-19 video resources.

A number of organisations have created COVID-19 resources specifically developed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Research

Influenza vaccines are important for reducing the burden of influenza, particularly for populations at risk of more severe infections. Obesity is associated with increased influenza severity and therefore individuals with obesity are often specifically recommended for annual influenza vaccination. Obesity is also associated with an altered inflammatory profile, which may influence vaccine responses. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the evidence for any association between obesity and influenza vaccine immunogenicity.

Research

Remote-living Aboriginal children in Australia contend with higher rates of skin infections than non-Indigenous children. This work was embedded within a stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial aiming to halve the rate of skin infections in remote Kimberley communities. It outlines and reflects upon the co-development of a health promotion resource in partnership with the East Kimberley community of Warmun, whilst understanding community perceptions of its impact.

Research

This study evaluated the association between insulin regimen, hospitalization for acute diabetes complications, and related health care costs in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Hospital admissions for diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemia between January 5, 2022, and April 30, 2024, were analyzed in Western Australian children with T1D. Admissions due to newly diagnosed T1D were excluded. Incidence rate ratios were calculated using generalized estimating equations, adjusted for age, diabetes duration, and socioeconomic status.

Research

Little evidence exists on the postoperative trajectory after paediatric orthopaedic surgery. Pain and behavioural disturbance can have short- and long-term impacts on children and their families. An improved understanding of procedure-specific postoperative trajectories can enhance recovery. The primary outcome was to examine the duration and severity of postoperative pain experienced by children undergoing 10 commonly performed orthopaedic procedures.