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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Differences between bacterial and viral infection

Bacterial and viral infections must be treated differently. Misusing antibiotics to treat viral infections leads to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

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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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Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is common however, most people have no symptoms. Learn more about it's causes, symptoms and how you can prevent infection.

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Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

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

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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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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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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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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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Glandular fever prevention

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Find out more about how to prevent glandular fever.

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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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Glandular fever symptoms

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Find out more about the symptoms of glandular fever.

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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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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.

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Glandular fever treatments

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Learn more about the treatments for glandular fever.

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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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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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Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a tablet you can take daily to reduce your risk of infection if exposed to HIV. Learn more about its benefits and risks here.

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Rabies

Trusted information about rabies from leading Australian health organisations, including links to lyssavirus.

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Cold sore treatments

If you have a cold sore there are a number of things you can do to help manage the condition.

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Pap smears

The Pap smear has been replaced by the Cervical Screening Test, which is done every 5 years. Find out why here.

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HPV vaccine

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can be prevented by vaccination. There are 2 doses given free to both girls and boys aged 12-13 years, ideally before sexual activity begins.

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Cold sores

Cold sores are blister-like spots that appear in or around the mouth. Find out about prevention, common triggers, treatment and self-care options.

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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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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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Symptoms of shingles

Shingles is a painful rash on a sensitive area of skin that can have symptoms such as burning and itching. Learn more here - including when to see a doctor.

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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.

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