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.

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Should I bother getting a flu vaccination in Australia in 2021?

Rates of influenza in 2020 were very low, due to COVID-safe practices. But it's still worth getting vaccinated against the deadly flu. Here's why.

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Colds and flu

Find out more about how to treat the cold or flu, how to avoid catching the cold or the flu, and special information on being ill during pregnancy and looking babies and children with a cold or flu.

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Flu vaccine FAQs

Find out when to get your flu shot and learn about its side effects, effectiveness and safety. Is flu vaccination impacted by COVID-19?

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Cold or flu? (infographic)

Can't tell if you've got the cold or the flu? This infographic helps you compare cold and flu symptoms, debunk the most common myths.

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Colds and flu in babies and children

Here is information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments of coughs, colds and flu in children and babies and when to seek medical advice.

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Cold and flu during pregnancy

When you are pregnant you need to be careful how you treat cold or flu as it can effect your unborn baby.

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Avian influenza (bird flu)

Information about avian influenza (bird flu) from leading Australian health organisations, including links to content on avian influenza in humans.

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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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Why getting a flu vaccination now will help in the fight against COVID-19

Australians are being urged to get their flu vaccination as soon as possible — to reduce the risk of a dangerous double-up of seasonal influenza and coronavirus (COVID-19).

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Flu trend report for health professionals

Staff at Healthdirect Australia collect influenza (flu) data based on calls to the healthdirect helpline. This page provides a detailed flu data report for health professionals.

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Flu trends in Australia

Information about current influenza trends in Australia, including data for health professionals, plus tips and advice to help you prevent the flu.

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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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10 tips to fight the flu – infographic

Flu vaccine and good hygiene are some of the most important ways to help prevent colds and flu. Here's a handy list of tips to fight the flu.

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Fever in babies and children - infographic

When should a child with a fever see a doctor? How do I treat a fever at home? Answer these questions and more with this infographic about fever in children.

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Anosmia (loss of smell)

Anosmia is the medical term for loss of smell. Find out about the causes, symptoms and treatments of anosmia.

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Cough

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, windpipe or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve the symptoms.

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How colds and flu impact blood donations — and how you can help

Up to 1,400 people per day are cancelling their blood donation appointments, following an early start to the cold and flu season. Here's how your donation can help.

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Colds

A cold is a viral infection that affects the nose, the throat and upper airways. Find out more about the common cold.

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Fever

A high temperature is a normal response to infection and can be a common sign of a cold or flu. Learn about how to take a temperature reading and self-care advice.

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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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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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Travel vaccinations

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

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Other questions about the COVID-19 coronavirus

Answers to common questions about COVID-19, including whether you should bulk-buy groceries and which types of public venue have closed.

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Vaccinations and pregnancy

The immune system can weaken during pregnancy, so you can be more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Certain vaccinations are recommended.

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Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, often caused by bacteria or viruses. It can be mild or very serious. Learn more about the illness.

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Egg allergy

Egg allergy usually starts in infancy, but most children grow out of it. Learn about the symptoms and diagnosis of egg allergy, plus ways to avoid egg.

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Health checks for babies

Shortly before or after your baby is born, you'll be given a Child Health Record booklet. In Australia, this usually has a blue cover and is often called 'the blue book'.

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Immunisation or vaccination - what's the difference?

What's the difference between immunisation and vaccination?

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Bronchitis

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the larger airways in your lungs, which causes an ongoing cough. Learn how to reduce the risk of bronchitis.

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