Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections can affect many parts of your body. Find out about bacterial infections, how they are treated and how to stop them spreading.

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What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections?

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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Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that occurs to some humans and animals in humid conditions. The condition is treatable, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid getting leptospirosis.

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Cefalexin

Cefalexin is used to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body. This page explains how cefalexin works, its risks and other treatment options available in its place.

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Abscesses

Abscesses are painful collections of pus that builds up under the skin, in or between an organ. Find out more about abcesses on our trusted partner pages.

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Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infection of the skin and nerves. It is rare in Australia and can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics.

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Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. Read more about symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis.

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Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an inflammation of the skin and the tissues directly beneath it. It often affects the lower leg, but can occur on any part of the body.

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Antibiotics

Antibiotics revolutionised medicine in the 1940s because they treated infections caused by bacteria. Learn how antibiotics work and how to take them.

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Toxic shock syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) occurs when a bacteria releases toxins into the body's bloodstream. It's very rare but is more common during a woman's period.

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Typhoid and paratyphoid

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are similar diseases that are common in developing nations. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment for typhoid.

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Staph infections

Are you at risk of a staph infection? Learn how to spot the signs and symptoms of different kinds of staph infection, and how to prevent and treat it.

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Invasive staph infections

Invasive staphylococchus (staph) infections, although far less common than staph skin infections, are usually more severe. Learn more about the different types here.

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E. coli infection

E. coli (or escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that causes both minor and severe illness. Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatments of E. coli here.

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Anthrax

Anthrax is very rare in Australia. It is a serious infectious disease you can catch if in contact with infected animals or animal products.

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Listeria and listeriosis

Listeriosis is a type of food poisoning caused by eating foods contaminated with Listeria bacteria and can be dangerous for certain people. Find out more here.

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Botulism

Botulism is a rare, serious illness caused by a toxin produced by clostridium botulinum bacteria. Learn how you can reduce your risk with preventative measures.

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Toenail infection

Toenail infections are common but they may also be a sign of other conditions. Find out more about what a toenail infection is, common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments and prevention.

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Food poisoning

Food poisoning is caused by bacteria, viruses or toxins in the food we eat. Learn how to recognise it, and people at greater risk of serious complications.

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Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection and is most serious in babies. Here’s how to spot the symptoms and protect infants.

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Group B streptococcal disease

Group B streptococcal disease is a bacterial infection. A mother can pass it to her baby during childbirth, and if not treated it can be serious. Learn more.

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Group A streptococcal disease

Group A streptococcal disease is a bacterial infection generally treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include a sore throat and skin sores. Learn more here.

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What's the difference between food allergy and intolerance — and other health concepts?

Wonder why psychiatrists and psychologists are different? Did you know that prebiotics and probiotics are not the same? Learn the differences between those things, and more.

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Pneumococcal disease

Links to articles about pneumococcal disease.

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Peritonitis

Peritonitis is a life-threatening condition and requires urgent medical attention. Find out more about peritonitis.

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Campylobacter infection

Campylobacter infection (campylobacteriosis) causes gastroenteritis, but most people recover in 1 to 2 weeks with rest and fluids. Learn about the causes here.

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Tetanus

Tetanus is an infection that can be fatal. Because of vaccination, few people now get tetanus infection in Australia. Learn more about tetanus here.

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Buruli ulcer

Buruli ulcer is a bacterial disease that can lead to severe skin and limb damage if left untreated. Recognise the symptoms and find out where it has been reported.

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Neutropenia

Neutropenia is when you have a low number of neutrophils (white blood cells) and may face increased risk of infection. Learn more about managing this condition.

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Swollen lymph nodes (swollen glands)

Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system and can become swollen for different reasons. Learn more about the causes and treatment for swollen lymph nodes.

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