Flu (influenza)

Influenza is a viral infection that affects your nose and throat. Find out more about the flu and how to protect yourself by getting vaccinated.

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Flu vaccine FAQs

Frequently asked questions about flu shots - why get a flu shot, when to get one, side effects and can I get a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

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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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Colds and flu

Find out more about how to treat the cold or flu, how to avoid catching the cold or the flu and special cases in which to take extra care.

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What you need to know about any risks of bird flu in Australia

It's very rare for humans to get infected with bird flu. Learn about the causes and symptoms of bird flu and how it can be prevented.

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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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Medicines for cold and flu

Learn about over-the-counter medicines that might help relieve cold and flu symptoms and when antiviral medicine may be helpful.

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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous infection. It is rare in Australia, due to routine vaccination of babies. Learn about Hib symptoms.

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What is a pandemic?

A pandemic is a global spread of new diseases, such as COVID-19 and influenza. Here's what you need to know, including how epidemics are different.

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Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be very serious. It’s often caused by bacteria or viruses. Learn how to prevent getting pneumonia.

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Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the airways in your lungs, which causes a cough. Learn about the symptoms and treatment of acute bronchitis.

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Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis symptoms are ongoing wet cough and repeated chest infections. Find out about the causes, diagnosis and treatment for bronchiectasis.

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Egg allergy

Egg allergy usually starts in infancy, but most children grow out of it. Learn about the symptoms and diagnosis of egg allergy, and ways to avoid egg.

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Respiratory viruses

Respiratory viruses affect your respiratory system. You’re usually most contagious in the first few days you have symptoms.

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Croup

Croup is very common in children under 5 years old. Learn about croup symptoms, treatment, and when to seek urgent medical help.

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Pleurisy

Pleurisy is when the lining of your lungs becomes inflamed. Read about the symptoms, causes and treatments for pleurisy, and when to see your doctor.

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Side effects of medicines including vaccines

Side effects are any unwanted effects of a medicine. Learn more about different types of adverse reactions and what to do if you have them.

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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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Anosmia (loss of smell)

Anosmia is the medical term for loss of smell. It is often age-related. Find out more about the causes, diagnosis and complications of anosmia.

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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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Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of disorders and is caused by inflammation of blood vessels. Read more about vasculitis types, symptoms and treatment options.

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Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for arthritis

DMARDs are medicines used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Learn how these medicines work and about the side effects.

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Chest infection

Chest infections are common in people of all ages. Find out more about what causes chest infections, their symptoms and treatments.

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What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections?

Bacterial and viral infections can have similar symptoms but are treated differently. Find out more about bacterial and viral infections.

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Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD)

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic condition that can cause lung and liver disease. Learn more about AATD symptoms and treatments.

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Notification of illness and disease

Muscular dystrophy is a group of inherited diseases that cause muscle weakness. Learn more about the different types, symptoms and treatment options.

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term used for some long-term lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

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Medicines and breastfeeding

While most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding, some can affect your baby. Learn out more about medicines and breastfeeding here.

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Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome isn't a specific disease, but a set of problems from damaged kidneys. Learn about the condition, including symptoms and treatment.

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Night sweats

Night sweats may be a sign of a medical condition or may be caused by a medicine. Find out more about night sweats, common causes and treatments.

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