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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Anthrax

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

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Notification of illness and disease

‘Notifiable’ diseases are ones where government health authorities must be notified about occurrences. Learn why this is important and about the information.

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Tuberculosis

This highly infectious disease, which mostly affects the lungs, can be spread through coughing, sneezing, speaking or even singing.

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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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Personal hygiene

Good personal hygiene is important and will prevent you and your children from picking up or spreading germs and infectious diseases. Take these steps to avoid getting sick.

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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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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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School exclusion for health reasons

Kids with certain infectious diseases must stay away from school or childcare. Find out how exclusions work and when your child can return to school.

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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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Pubic lice (crabs)

Pubic lice (crabs) are tiny insects spread mainly by sexual contact. Find out the symptoms, the treatment and how to stop pubic lice spreading.

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Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a group of diseases that can affect the brain, heart, joints or kidneys.

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Safe travels! 10 tips for a healthy holiday

Travel can be great, but there are some risks involved, especially overseas. Make the most of your holiday and have a safe trip by using these health tips.

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Travel vaccinations

Find out why vaccinations — such as influenza, measles, typhoid — are important before overseas travel. Learn about side effects and safety.

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Homeopathy

This article briefly describes homeopathy, including the lack of current evidence for its effectiveness and safety.

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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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Endocarditis

This rare but potentially fatal condition is caused by infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis of endocarditis is vital.

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Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect men and women differently. Find out more about UTI symptoms, prevention and when to seek medical help.

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Granulomas

A granuloma is a tiny cluster of white blood cells and other tissue, and is found in the lungs, head, skin or elsewhere. Granulomas are not cancerous; they form as a reaction to, for example, infections or foreign objects.

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What do paediatricians do?

Paediatricians diagnose, treat and provide care for babies, kids and teenagers. They deal with illnesses and children’s physical, mental and behavioural development.

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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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Contact tracing

Contact tracing is a method used to slow the spread of infections by identifying people who have been in contact with an infected person.

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Lyme disease

Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted in a tick bite however, the types of tick that carry the bacteria have not been found in Australia.

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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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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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Bowel infections

Bowel infections (gastrointestinal infections) can affect anyone. Learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of different bowel infections.

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How to get help with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

If you’re concerned about your mental health because of the COVID-19 crisis, here are some of the tips, services and resources available to help you.

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Influenza A

Influenza A is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It’s not usually dangerous if you are healthy. Learn about the symptoms and how to treat it.

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Fever in children

Fevers are quite common in young children and usually they are mild. Find out how to deal with fever and high temperatures in children here.

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Cocaine

Cocaine, or 'coke' as it is commonly known, is a highly addictive drug associated with health issues and other problems. Learn more about its physical effects and the risks associated to cocaine use.

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