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Is Systemic Dissemination of BCG Following Neonatal Vaccination Required for Protection Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and is a leading cause of death. BCG is the only licensed TB vaccine. Preclinical studies have shown that in adults, intravenous administration of BCG improves protection against TB. We hypothesize that intradermal administration of BCG to the human newborn leads to low-grade BCG bacteremia and that this systemic dissemination improves protection against Mtb infection. This hypothesis is based on supporting observations including animal and human studies. It is a testable hypothesis and offers to deliver immediately actionable insight to advance the global efforts against TB.

Unpacking the “black box” of safe respiratory physiotherapy interventions delivered in the home for children with cerebral palsy and medical complexity

Describe the physiotherapy interventions provided to children with cerebral palsy at risk of respiratory illness and determine criteria for safe in-home treatment.

TrialR: critical enablers and the need for reusable Rare Disease Clinical Trial infrastructure in Western Australia

Citation: MacDonald B, Burmaz M, Baker S, et al. TrialR: critical enablers and the need for reusable Rare Disease Clinical Trial infrastructure in

Challenges and insights in self-swab surveillance for asymptomatic Streptococcus pyogenes carriage

Asymptomatic carriage of Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) may contribute to transmission, yet its role remains poorly understood and evidence on optimal detection methods is limited. While self-collected throat swabs are used in infectious disease surveillance, their value for identifying asymptomatic Strep A carriage in adults is uncertain. This pilot prospective cohort study, conducted at a Perth medical research institute between August and October 2024, assessed feasibility and acceptability of self-collection, with sensitivity as a secondary objective. 

From random care to randomized clinical trials of patients with invasive streptococcal infections—research prioritisation and areas of equipoise

Life-threatening invasive infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) are unpredictable, frequently fatal, and are increasing in incidence globally. In the absence of evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), clinical management for these conditions varies. Understanding current management approaches and areas of clinical equipoise will inform planning of feasible high-impact RCTs.

Recommendations for Sun Protection in Children and Young People: A Systematic Review of Guidelines and Consensus Statements

Ultraviolet radiation is the leading preventable cause of skin cancer, and early-life exposure increases long-term risk. Despite this, guidelines on sun protection for children and young people are inconsistent. 

A whole of country analysis of antimicrobial stewardship resources, activities and barriers for children in Australian hospitals pre- and post COVID-19

We aimed to assess and identify any gaps in antimicrobial stewardship resources and activities for all hospitalised children in Australia pre- and post- the COVID-19 pandemic

Household transmission of Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A): a review to inform potential environmental health interventions for remote living Aboriginal communities at high risk of rheumatic fever

Understanding Strep A transmission within the home is critical to inform effective prevention strategies.

Centralising Local Aboriginal Language and Culture in Healthy Skin Books on the See Treat Prevent (SToP) Trial in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia: A Process and Impact Inquiry

Language is significant for communicating knowledge across cultures and generations and has the power to attribute meanings and alter our worldviews.

Acute rheumatic fever

Acute rheumatic fever is an autoimmune disorder resulting from Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis or impetigo in children and adolescents, which may evolve to rheumatic heart disease (RHD) with persistent cardiac valve damage. RHD causes substantial mortality and morbidity globally, predominantly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, with an interplay of social determinants of health and genetic factors determining overall risk.