What are the diseases that are spreading?

Infectious diseases are caused by microscopic germs (such as bacteria or viruses) that get into the body and cause problems. Some — but not all — infectious diseases spread directly from one person to another. Infectious diseases that spread from person to person are said to be contagious.

Some infections spread to people from an animal or insect, but are not contagious from another human. Lyme disease is an example: You can't catch it from someone you're hanging out with or pass in the street. It comes from the bite of an infected tick.

Contagious diseases (such as the flu, colds, or strep throat) spread from person to person in several ways. One way is through direct physical contact, like touching or kissing a person who has the infection. Another way is when an infectious microbe travels through the air after someone nearby sneezes or coughs.

Sometimes people get contagious diseases by touching or using something an infected person has touched or used — like sharing a straw with someone who has mono or stepping into the shower after someone who has athlete's foot. And sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are spread through all types of sex — oral, anal, or vaginal.

You can help protect yourself against contagious diseases by washing your hands well and often, staying away from those who are sick, making sure you're up to date on all vaccinations, and always using condoms during any type of sex.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

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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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, although it can also occur in adults and is occasionally serious. Here’s how to help ease the sympt...

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Chlamydia is a common STI in Australia. Learn more about the prevention, testing and treatment of chlamydia, as well as contact tracing.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

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 are the diseases that are spreading?

Known as 'pink eye', conjunctivitis is a contagious disease where the whites of the eye appear pink and may have a sticky discharge.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Health advice on COVID-19, including when to get tested or self-isolate, symptoms, how to avoid infection, physical distancing and restrictions.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, windpipe or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve a chesty, dry or persistent cough.

Diarrhoea may last for just a few days, or it might indicate something more serious. Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments for di...

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

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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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Genital herpes is spread by skin-to-skin contact – even through kissing or foreplay. There are things you can do to control it, learn more here.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Also known as 'the clap', gonorrhoea often has no symptoms. Learn how to spot symptoms, maintain and how gonorrhoea is treated.

Read more about Gonorrhoea (the clap).

What are the diseases that are spreading?

Hepatitis B can lead to liver damage over time. If it turns out you have hepatitis B, it is important to protect others from infection. Find out how.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

People with HIV are unlikely to transmit the virus or develop AIDS if they get effective treatment. Learn about HIV prevention, testing and treatment.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Impetigo, or school sores, is a highly contagious skin infection that causes sores and blisters. It's very common and affects mainly children.

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Find out about Australian bat Lyssavirus, and learn how it can be prevented if you are bitten or scratched by a bat.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

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

What are the diseases that are spreading?

Rubella (also known as German measles) is best prevented by the MMR vaccination. Learn more about its distinctive rash, other symptoms and treatments.

Read more about Rubella (German measles).

What are the diseases that are spreading?

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. Here's how to recognise the symptoms and find the treatment that's best for you.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Sinusitis is when the hollow spaces in the bones of your face become inflamed. Sinusitis is a common symptom for colds and the flu and it can be diffi...

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Pharyngitis is normally a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection and is common with a cold or flu. Here's how to care for a sore throat.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Are you at risk of a staph infection? Learn how to spot the signs and symptoms of different kinds of staph infection, and how to prevent and treat it.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Syphilis is relatively rare in Australia. It can cause serious health problems if left untreated. However, syphilis is easy to cure if found early.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Learn about its symptoms and treatments.

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection and is most serious in babies. Here’s how to spot the symptoms and protect infants.

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

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What are the diseases that are spreading?

Vomiting in adults is usually not a sign of anything serious and tends to only last one or two days. Learn the causes and when to seek medical advice.

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Several types of intestinal worms may infect people in Australia, but threadworms are by far the most common. Find out the symptoms and treatment of w...

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

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