Infectious diseases

Learn about bacterial infections, including what causes them, how they spread, and the symptoms and treatments available.

Viruses can cause infections and spread by vomit, poo or tiny droplets from your nose or mouth. Learn about the symptoms and treatment.

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.

Sex is part of a healthy relationship, but can carry risks. Learn about safe sex, STIs, spotting symptoms, and what to do if you get infected.

Sepsis is a serious condition which can lead to septic shock, organ failure and even death if not diagnosed and treated early. Find out more here.

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

Children with some infectious diseases must stay away from school or childcare. Find out how exclusions work and when your child can return to school.

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.