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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Quick read: Your infectious period

Learn if you are still infectious while you are recovering from COVID-19, or if you are putting others at risk.

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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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Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious disease that mostly affects the lungs. It can live in your body for years before causing symptoms.

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Smallpox

Smallpox is a highly infectious disease, eradicated worldwide by successful vaccination. Read about prevention and its relationship to monkeypox.

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Glandular fever

Glandular fever (also called 'kissing disease') is an infectious disease common in teenagers and young adults. Learn how glandular fever can spread.

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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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Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a rare infectious bacterial disease that usually affects the nose and throat. Learn more about its vaccination, symptoms and how it spreads.

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Causes of diarrhoea

Read more about what can cause diarrhoea. Various acute infections as well as long-term health conditions, bowel disease and even medical treatments.

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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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School exclusion periods

If your child has an infectious illness, you may need to keep them home to stop it spreading at daycare or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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COVID-19 isolation and recovery

Isolation and quarantine help protect you by preventing exposure to people who have, or may have, COVID-19. Follow these steps if you’re a close contact or have COVID.

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Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is an illness that causes inflmmation to your liver. Hepatitis A usually doesn't cause long-term damage like other types of hepatitis can.

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Measles

Measles is a very infectious viral disease. It’s spread via droplets in the air. Learn about the symptoms of measles and why vaccination is essential.

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Monkeypox

Monkeypox (mpox) is a rare infectious disease related to smallpox. While symptoms are usually mild, it can be serious and need medical attention.

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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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Fifth disease (Slapped cheek disease)

Fifth disease or 'slapped cheek disease' is a mild viral illness marked by a red rash that makes children’s cheeks look like they’ve been slapped

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Travel vaccinations

Find out why vaccinations are important before you travel overseas. Learn about the vaccines you need to consider, their side effects and safety.

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Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, often harmless, viral skin infection. Learn more about its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

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Parasite conditions

Parasites can infect humans via many routes, such as through sexual intercourse, via a vector (e.g. mosquito), through ingestion, or simply from close contact with an infected person. Learn more about them here.

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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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Diarrhoea in children

Diarrhoea in children is very common. It can sometimes be serious. Read more here to find out about the causes, symptoms and treatments.

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Ebola virus

Ebola virus disease is a rare but often fatal illness. Find out more about Ebola transmission (spread), symptoms and treatment options.

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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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Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial throat infection usually affecting primary school-aged children. Find out about its symptoms, treatments and prevention.

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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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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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Personal hygiene

Good personal hygiene is important and will prevent you from catching or spreading germs. Learn more about how to look after your body here.

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Mastitis

Mastitis occurs when breast tissue gets inflamed, usually due to a blocked milk duct caused by breastfeeding. Mastitis can lead to infection.

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Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a common chest infection in babies that affects their breathing. Urgent treatment can be needed. Find out when to call for help.

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