Infectious diseases

There are many different kinds of infectious diseases. Find out about conditions such as shingles, chlamydia, measles, conjunctivitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis and more here.

Read more

Anthrax

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

Read more

Notification of illness and disease

‘Notifiable’ diseases are ones where government health authorities must be notified about occurrences. Learn why this is important and about the information.

Read more

Tuberculosis

This highly infectious disease, which mostly affects the lungs, can be spread through coughing, sneezing, speaking or even singing.

Read more

Smallpox

Smallpox was a highly infectious disease, now eradicated worldwide through successful vaccination. The last case in Australia was in 1938. Learn more here.

Read more

Personal hygiene

Good personal hygiene is important and will prevent you and your children from picking up or spreading germs and infectious diseases. Take these steps to avoid getting sick.

Read more

Glandular fever

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Learn how glandular fever can be spread.

Read more

School exclusion for health reasons

Kids with certain infectious diseases must stay away from school or childcare. Find out how exclusions work and when your child can return to school.

Read more

Ebola virus

Ebola is a rare and often fatal illness. Learn about the Ebola virus, who’s at risk, symptoms and treatment options.

Read more

Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a group of diseases that can affect the brain, heart, joints or kidneys.

Read more

Safe travels! 10 tips for a healthy holiday

Travel can be great, but there are some risks involved, especially overseas. Make the most of your holiday and have a safe trip by using these health tips.

Read more

Travel vaccinations

Find out why vaccinations — such as influenza, measles, typhoid — are important before overseas travel. Learn about side effects and safety.

Read more

Homeopathy

This article briefly describes homeopathy, including the lack of current evidence for its effectiveness and safety.

Read more

Measles

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease, spread from person to person via droplets in the air. Learn about the symptoms and why vaccination is essential.

Read more

Granulomas

A granuloma is a tiny cluster of white blood cells and other tissue, and is found in the lungs, head, skin or elsewhere. Granulomas are not cancerous; they form as a reaction to, for example, infections or foreign objects.

Read more

How do I know if I'm immune to measles?

Cases of measles have risen by 30% globally, and in places where it was eradicated — including Australia. Now's the time to check your immunity to measles or get vaccinated.

Read more

Endocarditis

This rare but potentially fatal condition is caused by infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis of endocarditis is vital.

Read more

Lyme disease

Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted in a tick bite however, the types of tick that carry the bacteria have not been found in Australia.

Read more

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect men and women differently. Find out more about UTI symptoms, prevention and when to seek medical help.

Read more

Contact tracing

Contact tracing is a method used to slow the spread of infections by identifying people who have been in contact with an infected person.

Read more

Cervical cancer could be eradicated within 40 years

Australia could be the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer, thanks to the free HPV immunisation program and new Cervical Screening Test.

Read more

What do paediatricians do?

Paediatricians diagnose, treat and provide care for babies, kids and teenagers. They deal with illnesses and children’s physical, mental and behavioural development.

Read more

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare brain disorder that causes dementia symptoms. Find trusted partner pages about Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Read more

How to get help with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

If you’re concerned about your mental health because of the COVID-19 crisis, here are some of the tips, services and resources available to help you.

Read more

Bowel infections

Bowel infections (gastrointestinal infections) can affect anyone. Learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of different bowel infections.

Read more

Cocaine

Cocaine, or 'Coke' as it is commonly known, is a highly addictive drug associated with health issues and other problems. Learn more about its physical effects and the risks associated to cocaine use.

Read more

Heroin

Heroin is a highly addictive drug with many serious side effects. Find out more about heroin's effects and the dangers of long term abuse and addiction.

Read more

Influenza A

Influenza A is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It’s not usually dangerous if you are healthy. Learn about the symptoms and how to treat it.

Read more

Immunisation and vaccinations for your child

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting children against certain diseases. Discover more about childhood vaccinations.

Read more

Fever in children

Fevers are quite common in young children and usually they are mild. Find out how to deal with fever and high temperatures in children here.

Read more