Viral infections
Viruses can cause infections. They can spread to other people via the exchange of bodily fluids (such as saliva, semen and blood), insects, tissues, organs, vomit, poo or tiny droplets from your nose or mouth.
Viral infections can’t be treated with antibiotics. Your doctor may recommend other ways to manage the virus, such as resting, keeping hydrated and taking pain-relief medicines. Learn more about the different viruses that can affect you.
About coronaviruses
Coronaviruses can cause several illnesses, from the common cold to serious respiratory infections and pneumonia. Learn more about coronaviruses.
Adenoviruses
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that cause cold and flu-like symptoms. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment of adenoviruses.
Lyssavirus (ABLV)
Find out about Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) and learn what to do if you are bitten or scratched by a bat. ABLV can be prevented with vaccination.
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.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a mild childhood illness, that can also occur in adults. It is occasionally serious. Here's how you can prevent catching chickenpox.
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.
Ebola virus
Ebola virus disease is a rare but often fatal illness. Find out more about Ebola transmission (spread), symptoms and treatment options.
Enterovirus in children
Enteroviruses cause a range of illnesses which are usually mild. You can help prevent the spread of enterovirus infection by practising good hygiene.
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.
Gastroenteritis (gastro)
Gastroenteritis (‘gastro’) is an infection of the gut that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Learn here about gastro treatment and symptoms.
Genital herpes
Genital herpes spreads by skin-to-skin contact, like kissing or foreplay. Learn how to prevent the spread of the virus and what to do if you catch it.
Glandular fever
Glandular fever (also called 'kissing disease') is an infectious disease common in teenagers and young adults. Learn how glandular fever can spread.
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects children under 10 years old but can also affect older children and adults.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is a group of illnesses that damage your liver. Learn more about the different types, causes, symptoms and treatment for hepatitis.
Herpesvirus infections
Several herpesviruses can infect people and these infections are common. Learn more about the different types, causes, symptoms and treatment.
HIV infection and AIDS
People with HIV are unlikely to transmit the virus or develop AIDS if they get effective treatment. Learn about HIV prevention, testing and treatment.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that usually causes a mild illness. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment of HMPV.
Human papillomavirus and HPV vaccine
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus commonly spread through sexual contact which can cause cervical cancer. But vaccination can prevent it.
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.
Meningitis
Meningitis can be a life-threatening illness requiring urgent medical treatment. Learn more about meningitis, including the common symptoms.
MERS
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is caused by a coronavirus. It can cause fever, cough and shortness of breath. Find out more about MERS here.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Some illnesses are transmitted by mosquitoes ('mozzies'), including malaria, Dengue fever and the Zika virus.
Mpox (Monkeypox)
Mpox (Monkeypox) is a rare infectious disease similar to smallpox. While symptoms are usually mild, it can be serious in some people.
Mumps
Mumps is a contagious viral infection, which can cause facial swelling. Find out more about the symptoms, treatment and prevention of mumps.
Norovirus infection
Norovirus is a virus that can cause gastroenteritis and is spread easily. Discover its symptoms, treatment options and ways to protect yourself.
Parechovirus
Parechovirus is a type of virus that can cause mild or serious illness, especially in babies and children. Learn when you need urgent medical help.
Polio (poliomyelitis)
Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause paralysis and death. Learn about symptoms, treatment, and how vaccines prevent polio.
Rabies
Rabies in humans is caused by a bite or scratch from an infected animal. Learn what to do if you are bitten by an animal that may have rabies.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
RSV is a virus that causes infection in the lungs and airways. Read on to learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, management and prevention.
Rotavirus infection
Rotavirus is a viral illness that can cause severe diarrhoea. Learn more about the cause, symptoms, prevention and treatment for rotavirus.
Rubella (German measles)
Rubella (also known as German measles) is best prevented by the MMR vaccination. Learn more about its distinctive rash, other symptoms and treatments.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral disease that can cause severe pneumonia. Know what to do in a future outbreak.
Shingles
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. Here's how to recognise the symptoms, prevent shingles and get the best treatment for you.
Viral haemorrhagic fevers
Viral haemorrhagic fevers are a group of rare but potentially life-threatening illnesses that are caused by different viruses.
