Rubella (German measles)

Rubella (also known as German measles) is best prevented by the MMR vaccination. Learn more about its distinctive rash, other symptoms and treatments.

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Mumps

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, most common in children between 5 and 15 years. These days it’s rare thanks to effective immunisation.

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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.

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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.

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Vaccine preventable diseases

Vaccine preventable diseases (VPD) are diseases such as measles or mumps that can be prevented by an immunisation programme.

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What does measles rash look like?

There have been several confirmed cases of measles acquired by people returning from overseas. Here's what you need to know about potentially deadly measles.

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Immunisation or vaccination - what's the difference?

What's the difference between immunisation and vaccination?

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Immunisation and vaccinations

Immunisation and vaccinations are simple and effective preventative measures to help protect children and adults against harmful infections and diseases before they come into contact with them in the community.

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HPV vaccine

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that is spread through sexual contact. HPV causes most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts, but vaccination helps to prevent it.

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Immunisation for your child

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

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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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Cholera

Cholera is an illness that gives you severe diarrhoea and dehydration. It is most likely to be found in parts of the world with poor water and sanitary services.

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Rotavirus

Rotavirus is a viral illness that can cause severe diarrhoea. Learn more about its causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment options available.

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Clinical trials

Clinical trials are research investigations in which people volunteer to test new treatments.

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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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Travel vaccinations

Learn about why vaccinations are important before you travel.

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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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Free meningococcal vaccine to help protect Australian teenagers

More than 1 million teenagers will get a free meningococcal vaccine over the next 4 years, once it's added to the National Immunisation Schedule in April 2019.

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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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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.

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Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a serious disease transmitted by an infected mosquito in areas of Africa, Central or South America. Vaccination is recommended.

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Shingles — infographic

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful blistering rash. This infographic provides you with information on the symptoms, treatments and vaccination.

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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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Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a rare infectious bacterial disease that usually affects the nose and throat. Learn more about its vaccination, symptoms and how it spreads.

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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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Smallpox

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

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Travel health advice

Going overseas? Here are some tips on how to stay well during your holiday, including tips on food and water safety, insect risks and vaccinations.

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Meningitis

Meningitis can be a life-threatening illness requiring urgent medical treatment. Learn more about meningitis, including the common symptoms.

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Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, but can also occur in adults. Here’s how to help ease symptoms and discomfort.

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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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