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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Respiratory syncytial virus

RSV infects a person's airways and lungs. Learn about the causes, treatment and prevention of RSV, and how to stop the virus from spreading.

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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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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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Pap smears

The Pap smear has been replaced by the Cervical Screening Test, which looks for human papillomavirus (HPV) every 5 years.

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HIV and AIDS medication (antiretrovirals)

HIV medications (called 'antiretrovirals') fight to stop the virus multiplying while helping to protect the immune system from damage caused by HIV.

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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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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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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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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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Lyssavirus (ABLV)

Find out about Australian bat Lyssavirus, and learn how it can be prevented if you are bitten or scratched by a bat.

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Rabies

Rabies is caused by infection with the rabies virus. It is usually acquired from a bite or scratch from an infected animal. Learn how to prevent rabies and what to do if you may be infected.

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Human papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes almost all cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. Find out how HPV is diagnosed, treated and prevented.

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