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News & Events

Early ear infections linked to higher risk of future problems: study

Researchers have found kids who experience repeat ear infections in infancy have a much higher risk of ongoing problems with ear infections in later childhood

News & Events

WA Health funding supports development of rapid test for antibiotic-resistant skin infections in Aboriginal children

A rapid test to detect antibiotic-resistant skin infections in Aboriginal children could be a step closer, thanks to support from the FHRIF.

News & Events

World-first trial to seek child-specific treatments for dangerous bloodstream infections

The Kids Research Institute Australia, Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH) and the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity (Doherty Institute) will spearhead the paediatric arm of a world-first global platform trial designed to uncover treatments for Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection.

Our research

At the Wesfarmers Centre, we undertake research in five key areas of infections and immunisation to assist in children's health.

Hospital-based research

Review the hospital-based research that the Wesfamers Centre of Vaccines & Infectious Diseases conducts.

AusVaxSafety (previously FAST)

The aim of the study is the early identification of problems with the current flu vaccines, and providing parents and professionals with up to date information.

Sharing our Knowledge

Conference presentations

News & Events

Study finds high acute respiratory infection risk for vulnerable babies

Pre-term baby

Research

Ancestral SARS-CoV-2, but not Omicron, replicates less efficiently in primary pediatric nasal epithelial cells

Children typically experience more mild symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) when compared to adults. There is a strong body of evidence that children are also less susceptible to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection with the ancestral viral isolate.

Research

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccination during Pregnancy and Effects in Infants

A multi-country randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) F-protein nanoparticle vaccine was undertaken in 4,636 pregnant women and their infants. RSV F-protein vaccine was safe and immunogenic in the pregnant women inducing anti-F IgG, palivizumab-competing antibodies and RSV neutralizing antibodies that were transferred to the fetus.