Household characteristics of children under 2 years admitted with lower respiratory tract infection in Counties Manukau, South Auckland.

Aim: To describe household characteristics of admissions for lower respiratory tract infection (LRI) in children aged less than 2 years in Counties Manukau, South Auckland, New Zealand.

Methods: Prospective recruitment of all children aged less than 2 years admitted with a primary diagnosis of LRI from August to December 2007 with caregiver questionnaire.

Results: There were 580 admissions involving 465 children, 394 of whom had completed questionnaires (85% response rate).

School-based prevention of acute rheumatic fever: a group randomized trial in New Zealand.

Background: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequela, rheumatic heart disease is the commonest cause of childhood cardiac morbidity globally. The current approach to the prevention of a primary attack of rheumatic fever in children using oral medication for streptococcal pharyngitis is poorly supported. The efficacy of injectable penicillin, in high rheumatic fever incidence military environments is indisputable.

Debunking the myths to provide 21st Century management of gout.

Epidemiologic and recent qualitative research suggests that the impact of under-treated gout is far more significant than many health professionals realise. The magnitude of this impact for Maaori and Pacific men of working age has been identified as a particular concern by the recently formed Maaori Gout Action Group in Counties Manukau District Health Board (South Auckland, New Zealand). The Group has identified that to achieve modern management of gout, those with gout need to be supported by primary care practitioners who are aware of the need for early intervention with allopurinol, as well as whaanau/families and communities who understand the impact and causes of gout and the lifestyle changes that are needed alongside long-term allopurinol.