Do face masks protect you from bushfire smoke?

Face masks won’t necessarily protect you from the poor air quality being caused by Australian bushfire smoke. Here's why, and what you can do to protect yourself.

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How masks can help prevent COVID-19

Frequently asked questions and answers about how masks can help prevent a COVID-19 (coronavirus) infection, including how masks work, what types to use and how to wear them.

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Bushfire health and safety

Bushfires have become a part of Australian life. Learn how to protect your health, prepare for a natural disaster, know which health conditions put you at greater risk, and how to cope emotionally.

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How to avoid COVID-19

There are many ways to reduce your risk of COVID-19, including physical distancing, wearing a mask, hand washing and getting vaccinated.

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Travel and COVID-19

Learn more about current interstate and overseas travel requirements in Australia.

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COVID-19 close contacts and carers

Many people with mild COVID-19 symptoms can be cared for at home. Here's what you need to know if a household member has tested positive for COVID-19.

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COVID-19

Health advice and information on COVID-19, including when to get tested or self-isolate, symptoms, how to avoid infection, getting vaccinated and long COVID.

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Quick read: Your infectious period

Learn if you are still infectious while you are recovering from COVID-19, or if you are putting others at risk.

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Quick read: Prepare your home for COVID

If a household member tests positive for COVID-19, everyone in the home will need to take precautions straight away. Here are tips to help you get ready and stay safe.

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Quick read: How and where to isolate

If you’re self-isolating because you have COVID-19 or are a close contact, you can’t leave your home. Here are the dos and don’ts of isolation and recovering from COVID-19 safely at home.

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Healthy holiday tips — infographic

It’s important to think about your health as you prepare for a trip. Save and print this infographic for useful advice and what to consider.

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General anaesthetic (child)

A general anaesthetic is usually a safe and effective way for your child to have an operation or procedure. Most children do not have any problems.

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What is a pandemic?

A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease, such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) or a new influenza virus. Here's what you need to know, including how epidemics are different.

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How to use an asthma inhaler

Use your asthma inhaler correctly to get the full benefit of the medicine. This page contains tips and videos to help you take your asthma medicine properly.

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Anaesthetics (overview)

There are different forms of anaestheisa that can be used to provide a safe and effective way for you to have an operation or procedure, and to give you pain relief. Most people do not have any problems and are satisfied with their anaesthetic.

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Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy (radiation therapy) is a treatment for cancer. Learn more about the use of radiotherapy on its own or with other treatments.

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Thunderstorm asthma

Thunderstorm asthma happens when there are thunderstorms and a high pollen count. Learn more about its symptoms and treatment options.

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Your Christmas mental health questions answered

healthdirect's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nirvana Luckraj, answers your questions on looking after your mental health at Christmas time.

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Managing COVID-19 at home

People with a mild case of COVID-19 can treat their symptoms in a similar way to how they treat a seasonal flu. Here's how to relieve symptoms at home.

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Silicosis

Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust. Find out how to reduce your risk and what can be done to manage silicosis.

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Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs when a person's throat is partly or completely blocked while they are asleep. Learn about symptoms and treatment here.

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Chest infection

Chest infections are common in people of all ages. Find out more about what causes chest infections, their symptoms and treatments.

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Cough

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, airways or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve a chesty, dry or persistent cough.

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Bushfires and your health

Bushfires and smoke pose health risks, especially to those with conditions such as asthma. Prepare, get emergency medicines and stay informed.

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Monkeypox

Monkeypox (mpox) is a rare infectious disease related to smallpox. While symptoms are usually mild, it can be serious and need medical attention.

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