Meningitis

Meningitis can be a life-threatening illness requiring urgent medical treatment. Learn more about meningitis, including the common symptoms.

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Meningitis treatments

People with meningitis will usually be admitted to hospital, although some people with viral meningitis can be cared for at home with close medical supervision.

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Meningitis symptoms

There are many different symptoms and after-effects of meningitis. If you are worried that you or someone you care for may have meningitis, you should see a doctor immediately. Here’s advice on when to seek medical attention.

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What causes meningitis?

Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Occasionally it’s caused by parasites or fungi. Find out how these bugs are spread, the difference between viral and bacterial meningitis and the importance of immunisation.

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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous infection, although the routine vaccination of babies has meant it is now rare in Australia. Learn more here.

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Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also called amoebic meningitis, is a rare, but serious disease that leads to inflammation of the brain.

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Pneumococcal disease

Links to articles about pneumococcal disease.

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Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious infection caused by Meningococcus bacteria. It can develop quickly, and it can be fatal. Learn about the bacteria and how it’s spread, common symptoms and when to seek medical attention.

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Free meningococcal vaccine to help protect Australian teenagers

More than 1 million teenagers will get a free meningococcal vaccine over the next 4 years, once it's added to the National Immunisation Schedule in April 2019.

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Symptoms of serious illness in babies and children

If your child has a serious illness, it’s important to get medical attention quickly. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and what to do.

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Jacqui and Eleanor's story

When Jacqui noticed her daughter's skin was green and blotchy, she called the healthdirect helpline. Read her story and about how she got help.

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Streptococcal disease

Streptococcal disease is an infection which typically causes minor problems that are treated with antibiotics. Find links to trusted information about the disease here.

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Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. This fluid is essential, but too much of it can create pressure and damage the brain.

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Nervous system

Your nervous system controls much of what your body does including walking, speaking and other activities. Learn more about how it works.

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Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the balancing centre in your inner ear. Here’s how it may come about, symptoms to look out for and treatment options.

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Coma

In a coma, a person is alive but totally unresponsive to the world around them. Someone in a coma will need intensive care in hospital. Find out more here.

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Disorientation

Disorientation is what you experience when you are confused about the time, where you are or even who you are. It is often a symptom of dementia.

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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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Sepsis (septicaemia, or blood poisoning)

Sepsis ('septicaemia' or ‘blood poisoning’) is a serious, potentially fatal condition. Find out here about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments.

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What does a neurologist do?

A neurologist is a specialist physician who treats conditions like epilepsy that affect the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

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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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Cochlear implant

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that stimulate the hearing nerve to provide sounds directly to the brain. They are designed to improve hearing.

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Parechovirus

Parechovirus is a virus that usually has very mild symptoms, or none at all. Sometimes it can cause serious illness in babies and young children. Good hygiene can help stop it spreading.

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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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Mumps

Mumps is a contagious viral infection, most common in children between 5 and 15 years. These days it’s rare thanks to effective immunisation.

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Colic in babies

Excessive crying could be a sign that your baby has colic. Everyone agrees that colic exists but no one knows what causes it. Some doctors think it's a kind of stomach cramp.

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Cold and flu during pregnancy

When you are pregnant you need to be careful how you treat cold or flu as it can effect your unborn baby.

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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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Headaches

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, but most are easily treated. Find out about the different types of headaches and treatments.

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Fever

A high temperature is a normal response to infection and can be a common sign of a cold or flu. Learn about how to take a temperature reading and self-care advice.

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