Aust Fam Physician
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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterial pathogen that causes serious, sometimes fatal, infections primarily in young children, especially in the second 6 months of life. Immunisation of children against Hib is now an important issue and four conjugate Hib vaccines have become available. The various vaccines, and their characteristics are documented in this paper.
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Concussion is an injury that occurs frequently in the general community. Most cases are caused by sporting accidents, falls and assaults. This article reviews the presentation and management of this common problem. High velocity impacts as in motor vehicle accidents may result in concussion but are more likely to produce a serious brain injury.
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Ankle sprains are common injuries. They are often associated with residual disability with the ankle tending to give way on uneven ground (functional instability). Good management and rehabilitation require accurate diagnosis of the nature and extent of the injury, attention to the physical treatment and follow up with ankle strengthening and proprioceptive exercises to minimise the risk of functional instability.
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Our superb coastline attracts local tourists and overseas visitors seeking recreation. There is increasing contact with marine life. The unwary and unprepared holiday-maker can be at risk of serious injury from a number of common sea creatures.
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Depression is a common disorder. While depressive symptoms are often transient and may be regarded as normal, 10 per cent of the population suffers depressive symptoms of sufficient severity and duration to be diagnosed as suffering a depressive illness.