Viral haemorrhagic fevers

Viral haemorrhagic fevers are a group of rare but potentially life-threatening illnesses that are caused by different viruses.

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Ebola virus

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

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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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Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It's related to the virus that causes smallpox and while symptoms are usually mild, it can be serious.

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Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is common but, most people have no symptoms. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and how you can reduce your risk of infection.

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Zika virus

Learn about the Zika virus, and why it's advisable for pregnant women to avoid travelling to countries with outbreaks.

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Barmah Forest virus

Barmah Forest virus is an illness transmitted by mosquitoes and found only in Australia. Read more about symptoms and treatment.

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Herpesvirus infections

Links to information about herpesvirus infections.

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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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Water safety isn't just swimming between the flags

When you think of water safety, you might think of young children. But adults with pre-existing medical conditions and those 'under the influence' are also at risk.

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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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Needlestick injuries

If skin is punctured by a sharp medical tool like a scalpel or needle on a syringe, it is called a ‘needlestick injury’. Here's information about needlestick injuries from healthdirect and their partners.

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Skin conditions

There are many different kinds of rashes and skin conditions. Some are quick and easy to treat, while others are chronic or more difficult to get rid of. Find out more here.

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Nervous system diseases

Find out more about specific nervous system diseases, including signs and symptoms of particular conditions, how they are diagnosed and where to go for support.

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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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About coronaviruses

Coronaviruses can cause several illnesses, from the common cold to serious respiratory infections and pneumonia. Learn more about coronaviruses.

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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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COVID-19 information in languages other than English

Find COVID-19 information in languages other than English from trusted government websites.

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Night sweats

Night sweats may be a sign of a medical condition or may be caused by a medication. Find out more about night sweats, common causes and treatments.

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PrEP, the pill that can stop HIV infection, on PBS from April 1

A drug that can prevent HIV infection known as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or 'PrEP', is to be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

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Testing times for HIV

While new notifications of HIV have generally stabilised, rates have increased among heterosexual people and indigenous people. Here's how to get tested for, and prevent, HIV.

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Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Learn about its symptoms and treatments.

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Oral sex and mouth care

Mouth sores can be caused as a result of oral sex. If you think you have developed mouth sores it is important to seek medical advice.

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HTLV-1 infection

Human T-cell leukaemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a virus that infects T-cells, white blood cells that form part of the immune system. Learn more here.

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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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Can you boost your immune system against the COVID-19 coronavirus?

It's OK to feel anxious about the COVID-19 coronavirus. Here's what you can do to protect yourself from viruses — and what won't help, such as vitamin supplements.

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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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MERS coronavirus

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus is a disease the can cause fever, cough, shortness of breath and pneumonia in most infected people.

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Changes to your appetite

You may have noticed you gained or lost a lot of weight without using a diet. Appetite changes are caused by many things, including anxiety and depression.

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What is COVID-19?

Get information about COVID-19, including on variants such as Omicron, plus how it’s spread and how to avoid it.

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