Antibiotics

Antibiotics revolutionised medicine in the 1940s because they treated infections caused by bacteria. Learn how antibiotics work and how to take them.

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Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic medicine. This page explains what doxycycline is used for, how it works, its risks and other treatment options available in its place.

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Penicillin

Penicillin is the name given to a widely-used group of antibiotic drugs. Penicillin can have side-effects, and some people suffer allergic reactions. Find out more here.

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Cefalexin

Cefalexin is used to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body. This page explains how cefalexin works, its risks and other treatment options available in its place.

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What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections?

Bacterial and viral infections must be treated differently. Misusing antibiotics to treat viral infections leads to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

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Antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea has increased

Cases of gonorrhoea have risen in Australia, and many people don't know they have it. But this STI can cause infertility if left untreated.

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Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infection of the skin and nerves. It is rare in Australia and can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics.

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Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections can affect many parts of your body. Find out about bacterial infections, how they are treated and how to stop them spreading.

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Medicines

Learn more about a range of medicines, such as pain relief medicines, antidepressants and medicines for children.

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Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that occurs to some humans and animals in humid conditions. The condition is treatable, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid getting leptospirosis.

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Stomach ulcers

Stomach ulcers occur in the lining of your stomach. Although they are common and can be treated, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and get diagnosed early.

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Group A streptococcal disease

Group A streptococcal disease is a bacterial infection generally treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include a sore throat and skin sores. Learn more here.

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Ear infection

Ear infections are common but usually go away on their own. Learn about the different types of ear infections, the symptoms in adults and children and how to prevent ear infections.

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Otitis media (middle ear infection)

Otitis media (middle ear infection) is common and often gets better by itself. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and when it might need treatment.

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Group B streptococcal disease

Group B streptococcal disease is a bacterial infection. A mother can pass it to her baby during childbirth, and if not treated it can be serious. Learn more.

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Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial throat infection that usually affects primary school-aged children. Find out about its symptoms as well as treatments and preventions.

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Staph infections

Are you at risk of a staph infection? Learn how to spot the signs and symptoms of different kinds of staph infection, and how to prevent and treat it.

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Underlying causes of diarrhoea

Diarrhoea has many causes, including both acute and long-term health conditions; bowel disease; viruses, bacteria and parasites; and even medical treatments.

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Children's medicines

Children don't always need medicine to treat illnesses. But if you do need to give your child medicine, here are some useful tips.

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Colds and flu medication

Learn about over-the-counter medicines that might help relieve cold and flu symptoms and when antiviral medication may be helpful.

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Flu (influenza)

The flu is a viral infection affecting your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs. It is typically more severe than a cold. Find out more about the flu.

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Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an inflammation of the skin and the tissues directly beneath it. It often affects the lower leg, but can occur on any part of the body.

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Staph skin infection

Information on staph skin infections, what they are, the different types, treatments, prevention and when to get help.

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Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)

A kidney infection (pyelonephritis) can be unpleasant, but it will usually improve if treated promptly. Learn about symptoms and treatment here.

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Diarrhoea in children

Diarrhoea in children is very common, and when certain other symptoms are present, it may be serious. Find out here about the causes, symptoms and treatments.

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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous infection, although the routine vaccination of babies has meant it is now rare in Australia. Learn more here.

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Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis is vital. Find out about the risks and symptoms of endocarditis here.

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Anthrax

Anthrax is very rare in Australia. It is a serious infectious disease you can catch if in contact with infected animals or animal products.

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Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory disease that affects the body's connective tissues, especially those of the heart, joints, brain and skin.

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Earache

Earache is common and it's often the result of an ear infection. Find out what causes a ear pain, how to treat a sore ear to provide relief.

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