Influenza A (flu)

Influenza A is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It’s not usually dangerous if you are healthy, but can cause serious problems if you’re not. Find out more about what influenza A is, what the symptoms are and how to treat it.

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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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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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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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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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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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Flu vaccine FAQs

Got a question about the flu vaccine? Learn more about when to get vaccinated and who should get it.

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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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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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Fever in 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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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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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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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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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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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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Symptoms of COVID-19 and how the virus spreads

Learn about coronavirus (COVID-19), its symptoms, how it is diagnosed and treated, how it is spread and what to do if you come into contact with the virus.

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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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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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Immunisation and pregnancy

During pregnancy, your immune system is naturally weaker than usual so are more susceptible to certain infections and illnesses which can be harmful to you and your developing baby.

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Pneumonia prevention

There are vaccines which reduce the risk of getting pneumonia. Learn why vaccination is recommended as a prevention for people in at risk groups.

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What causes pneumonia?

Pneumonia is caused by an infection of the lung. Most infections are due either to bacteria or viruses.

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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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Asthma prevention

While asthma itself is not preventable, self-care and taking sensible preventative measures can reduce the risk of asthma symptoms and the asthma getting worse.

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School exclusion periods

If your child has an infectious illness, you may need to keep them home to stop it spreading at day-care or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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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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Pleurisy

Pleurisy occurs when the lining of the lungs become inflamed, most often due to a recent respiratory tract infection. Read about causes and treatments.

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