Hand washing

Hand washing is also one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infection by the accumulation of germs on your hands.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness mainly affecting children under 10 years old but sometimes affecting older children and adults.

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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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With the healthdirect app, you're in safe hands

Almost 4 in 5 Australians search the internet for health topics and symptoms. Download the new, supercharged healthdirect app and get the right information.

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Dupuytren's fasciectomy

A Dupuytren’s fasciectomy should straighten your fingers and give you a worthwhile improvement in the function of your hand.

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Threadworms (pinworms)

Threadworms infect children when eggs are transferred from their hands to their mouths. Learn the symptoms, treatment and prevention of threadworm.

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Personal hygiene for children

Good personal hygiene can boost your child's self-esteem, as well as keep them healthy. Find tips and links that will help support your children.

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Rheumatoid arthritis

Experiencing pain and swelling in the smaller joints in your hands or feet? It could be rheumatoid arthritis. Find out more here.

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Parechovirus

Parechovirus usually has mild or no symptoms. It can cause serious illness in babies and young children. Good hygiene helps stop the virus’ spread.

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Dupuytren's contracture

Dupuytren's contracture causes one or more of your fingers to bend towards the palm of your hand. Find out more about Dupuytren's contracture.

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Expressing and storing breast milk

Learn how to express milk from your breasts by hand or with a pump. Expressed breast milk can be stored and fed to your baby later.

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Erythromelalgia

Erythromelalgia is a rare skin condition which causes a burning pain and red skin usually on your hands or feet. Read more about erythromelalgia here.

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Are you experiencing suicidal thoughts?

If you’re thinking about suicide, you’re not alone and there is hope. There are things you can do, people you can talk to, and help is at hand. Learn more here.

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Personal hygiene

Good personal hygiene is important and will prevent you from catching or spreading germs. Learn more about how to look after your body here.

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Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful disorder caused by compression of a nerve in the wrist. Learn more here.

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Food safety

Learn how to prepare, cook and store food safely to avoid cross contamination and discover tips to help prevent you from becoming ill.

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Passive smoking and vaping

Passive smoke and vapour can damage your health if you breathe it in, especially for babies, children and pregnant women. Learn about the risks.

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Essential tremor

Essential tremor affects your nerves and causes uncontrollable shaking. Understand the difference between essential tremor and Parkinson’s Disease.

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Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a very common disease caused by a parasite that usually has no symptoms. Learn more about the causes and prevention options.

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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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Carpal tunnel release

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness in your thumb, index and middle fingers. A carpal tunnel release should improve your symptoms and prevent permanent nerve damage.

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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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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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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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Trapeziectomy

Osteoarthritis at the base of your thumb can cause pain when you use your thumb and prevent you from performing normal activities. A trapeziectomy can relieve the pain and so improve how your thumb works.

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How to perform CPR

CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation is first aid for when someone's heart has stopped or they’re not breathing. Learn when and how to perform CPR.

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Trigger finger release

Trigger finger is a condition where your finger jams or gets stiff. If treatment with steroid injections has failed, surgery should allow your finger to move freely.

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Arthroscopy of the wrist

An arthroscopy of your wrist allows your surgeon to diagnose and treat problems affecting the joint, without the need for a large cut on the skin.

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Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is a bowel infection caused by a parasite called cryptosporidium. Learn more about symptoms and when to see a doctor here.

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Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a type of nerve damage. It can cause pain, numbness or tingling in your arms and legs. Learn about some of the possible causes and treatments here.

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