Infectious diseases

#Infectious diseases

Worms in humans

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

What is worm infection in humans? Many types of worm can cause problems in humans. In Australia, worms that may infect people include: threadworms tapeworms whipworms hookworms Strongyloides These intestinal worms are parasites – they survive by living in another living thing (the host) and getting their food from it. What are the symptoms of a worm infection? A person with intestinal worms may not have any symptoms, but threadworms (Enterobius vermicularis), the most common worm infection in Australia, often do cause symptoms. A person with threadworms (also known as pinworms) may have an itchy bottom or redness and scratch

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Varicella

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Chickenpox is a very contagious infection caused by the varicella zoster virus. The most common symptom of chickenpox is an itchy red rash with fluid-filled blisters. Most cases of chickenpox are mild and get better on their own. Serious complications of chickenpox include infected blisters, pneumonia and meningitis. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against chickenpox. Chickenpox (varicella) What is chickenpox? Chickenpox is a very contagious infection caused by the varicella zoster virus. Chickenpox can affect anyone at any age. Most people with chickenpox have mild symptoms and get better quickly. In rare cases, the virus can cause

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#Gastrointestinal illnesses #Infectious diseases

Vomiting

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Vomiting is a reflex that helps the body get rid of substances that may be harmful. Gastroenteritis — an infection of the digestive tract — is one of the most common causes of nausea and sudden vomiting. If vomiting is caused by an infection, such as gastroenteritis or food poisoning, it can often be managed at home if you stay hydrated. Vomiting due to viral gastroenteritis usually clears up without any specific treatment within 2 days Ongoing or recurrent episodes of vomiting should be investigated by your doctor. What is vomiting? Vomiting is the forceful ejection of the

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Tonsillitis

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Tonsillitis is inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include a sore throat, trouble swallowing, fever, headache, and swollen lymph glands. Tonsillitis is more common in children than in adults. What is tonsillitis? Tonsillitis is inflammation of your tonsils. The tonsils are glands found at both sides of the back of your throat. Your tonsils are part of your immune system and help protect your body against infection. Tonsillitis makes your tonsils swollen and sore. It is most common in children. Adults can get tonsilitis, but it is not common.  The tonsils are

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Staph infections

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria are a common type of bacteria, which don’t usually cause any harm. There are many different types of staph infection. Your symptoms will depend on the type of infection that you’ve got. Most staph skin infections are treated with antibiotic medicine. Good hygiene can help prevent staph infections. What is a staph infection? Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria cause staph infections. Staph bacteria are a common type of bacteria. They don’t usually cause any harm. They’re also known as ‘golden staph’. There are different types of staph bacteria. Staph bacteria are often found on your skin or

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Sore throat

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is when the throat is red, swollen and painful, especially when you swallow. The most common cause of a sore throat is a virus, but some sore throats are caused by the bacteria streptococcus pyogenes — this is a ‘group A streptococcus‘, sometimes called ‘strep A’. There is no way to cure a sore throat that is caused by a virus. If the sore throat is caused by bacteria, you may benefit from antibiotics. Sometimes, when the sore throat is caused by strep A, complications can occur, including an abscess at the back

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Sinusitis

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Sinusitis is an inflammation of the hollow spaces in the skull between/behind the eyes, forehead and cheeks. Symptoms of sinusitis may include nasal discharge and obstruction, changes in smell and facial pain or pressure — symptoms may worsen when bending over or radiate to your teeth. Sinusitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection following a viral infection such as the common cold. You doctor can usually diagnose sinusitis by talking to you about your symptoms and by examining you. To treat sinusitis your doctor may prescribe medicines including regular pain relief, a saline nasal spray, a nasal

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#Herpesvirus infections #Infectious diseases #Nervous system diseases #S

Shingles

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Shingles is an infection that causes a painful, blistering rash. It is most common in people over 50 years. Shingles can be treated with antiviral medicine. You can’t catch shingles from someone who has shingles, but you can get chickenpox from someone who has shingles if you have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. The shingles vaccine helps prevent you from getting shingles. What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful, blistering rash. Who can get shingles? You can only get shingles if you have had chickenpox. It’s possible to have had chickenpox

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Conjunctivitis – Pink eye

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Conjunctivitis is sometimes known as ‘pink eye’ or ‘sticky eye’. Conjunctivitis is a common condition where the white part of the eye becomes pink or red. One or both eyes may be watery, sore or itchy, sometimes with sticky white or yellow discharge. Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacterial or viral infection, allergy, or irritants such as dust or chemicals. Your doctor or optometrist can tell you the likely cause of your conjunctivitis, if it’s contagious, and the best treatment for your type of conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis (pink eye) What is conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis, sometimes known as ‘pink eye’ or

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Notification of illness and disease

By Sama Mohamed

When certain diseases and illnesses occur, government health authorities must be informed about the occurrence — these are known as ‘notifiable’ diseases. Many, but not all, notifiable diseases are infectious diseases (sometimes known as ‘communicable’ diseases). It is not your responsibility to notify government health authorities; it is the responsibility of the doctor or pathology service. In some states, certain other people, such as directors of childcare centres, must also report certain diseases. Depending on the particular condition, if you are diagnosed with a notifiable disease, you might be contacted by health authorities. Also, you might want — or need

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#Childhood illnesses #Infectious diseases #kid's health #School exclusion periods

Mumps

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Mumps is a viral illness which can spread from one person to another easily. It commonly causes fever, tiredness and swelling of the salivary glands in the face. Mumps can cause serious complications and have a lasting effect on your health, such as hearing loss and infertility. Vaccination is the best protection against mumps. What is mumps? Mumps is a contagious viral illness. It does not always cause symptoms. If mumps does cause symptoms, it can bring about a fever, swelling of the salivary glands (parotitis) and inflammation in other parts of the body. Some cases of mumps

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#Childhood illnesses #Infectious diseases #kid's health #School exclusion periods

Measles

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Measles is a very contagious viral illness. You are likely to be immune if you are vaccinated against measles, or have already had measles. Measles causes fever, cough, red eyes and a red, blotchy rash. Measles can lead to serious complications including ear infections, pneumonia (lung infection) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles. What is measles? Measles is a very contagious viral illness. It’s best known for its characteristic red blotchy rash. Measles can be very serious and can lead to hospitalisation and even death. Measles was very common in

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Lyssavirus (ABLV)

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) is a virus that can spread from bats to humans, causing serious illness. The virus is closely related to the rabies virus and can be fatal if not treated. Any bat in Australia may carry ABLV. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, you should quickly clean the wound and get medical attention. The best way to prevent ABLV infection is to avoid touching bats. Australian bat lyssavirus infection (ABLV) What is lyssavirus (ABLV)? Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) is a virus that can spread from bats to humans, causing serious illness. ABLV

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#Childhood illnesses #H #Infectious diseases #kid's health

Impetigo

By Sama Mohamed

What is impetigo? Impetigo is a very common skin infection that causes sores and blisters. It affects mainly children. It’s sometimes called ‘school sores’. Impetigo is contagious and can be very dangerous for newborn babies. It’s important to keep children who have impetigo away from babies and they should not go to school or childcare until treatment has started. What are the symptoms of impetigo? Impetigo causes sores on the skin. These can be in the form of blisters that grow quickly, then burst and leave a moist area with a brown crust at the edge. The blisters can be

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#Childhood illnesses #Infectious diseases #kid's health #School exclusion periods

German measles (rubella)

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Rubella is a contagious illness caused by a virus. Around 1 in every 2 people who become infected with rubella do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms of rubella are usually mild and include fever, rash, joint aches and tiredness. Rubella can cause serious birth defects in babies whose mothers catch rubella during pregnancy. Vaccination is the best protection against rubella. Rubella (German measles) What is rubella? Rubella is a contagious illness caused by a virus. Rubella is also known as ‘German measles’, but it is different to the illness caused by the measles virus. Some people with rubella

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#Childhood illnesses #Infectious diseases #kid's health #School exclusion periods

Whooping cough

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Whooping cough is a contagious illness. Bacteria Bordetella pertussis causes it. The cough can last for months and may have a ‘whoop’ sound. Whooping cough can cause serious health problems in babies. Vaccination is the best protection against whooping cough. Adults may need booster vaccines for full immunity. Pregnant women and adults who have contact with babies should get a booster vaccine. What is whooping cough? Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that spreads from one person to another. It causes severe bouts of coughing. The ‘whoop’ refers to the sound you may make if you take a quick breath

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Tuberculosis (TB)

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that can affect any part of your body, most commonly your lungs. TB can be latent (where you don’t have any symptoms and are not infectious), or active (where you are unwell). The tuberculin skin test or a blood test can check if you have been infected with TB. TB can be treated with a combination of antibiotics that you will need to take for at least 6 months. The BCG vaccine prevents you becoming very unwell with TB, but it is only recommended in Australia for people at high risk of

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Ebola virus

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Ebola virus disease is a rare illness which can cause death. The Ebola virus isn’t found in Australia. The Ebola virus is transmitted (spread) through contact with bodily fluids. What is the Ebola virus disease? Ebola virus disease is a rare and often fatal (causing death) illness. It’s caused by the Ebola virus. There are several strains of the Ebola virus. Ebola virus disease used to be called Ebola haemorrhagic fever. You can become infected (catch) the Ebola virus if you have direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person or animal. So far, all outbreaks

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#D #Gastrointestinal illnesses #Infectious diseases

Diarrhoea

By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Most diarrhoea is mild and clears up in a few days without treatment. Diarrhoea has many different causes, but gastroenteritis is a common one. Avoiding dehydration is very important, especially for children and in older people. Children and older people should use oral rehydration solutions to replace fluids. Children should not take anti-diarrhoeal medicine. Ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking anti-diarrhoeal medicines — they may not be suitable for you. What is diarrhoea? Diarrhoea is having 3 or more loose or liquid stools (poos) in one day, or more frequently than normal. If you have diarrhoea, you

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Cough

By Sama Mohamed

What is a cough? Coughing is a protective reflex. It can remove substances that may have been inhaled, such as dust, and excess secretions that have built up in the airways. Coughing is how the body cleans the lungs and airways. Coughs may be dry coughs or chesty coughs. A dry cough does not produce any mucus or phlegm. A chesty cough (‘productive’ or ‘wet’ cough) is one that produces mucus and may cause feelings of congestion in the chest. Unexplained coughing that lasts for more than 3 weeks may indicate that you have an underlying medical condition. You should

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Bronchitis

By Sama Mohamed

Bronchitis What is bronchitis? Bronchitis is inflammation of the larger airways in your lungs the inflammation causes you to cough. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as cold viruses or influenza virus. Chronic bronchitis is usually related to smoking. Most people with acute bronchitis will feel better with time and rest. There are some treatments available that may help to help ease your cough and other symptoms. If you think you have bronchitis, your doctor can assess you and discuss treatment. What are the symptoms of bronchitis? Someone with bronchitis will have a cough (either dry or bringing up phlegm). The cough may

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Syphilis

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by bacteria and is easy to cure if found early. There are 4 stages of syphilis infection. If not treated, syphilis can lead to serious complications in your brain, eyes and heart. What is syphilis? Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by bacteria and can cause serious health problems if left untreated. However, it is easy to cure if found early. Syphilis is rare in Australia, but the numbers are increasing, especially in men who have sex with men and young Aboriginal and Torres

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HIV infection and AIDS

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

What are HIV and AIDS? The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that affects the immune system. It gradually destroys cells called CD4 cells, which usually help the body stay healthy by fighting off disease. If HIV is not treated, most people will develop severe immune deficiency within 10 years. At this point, the body is no longer able to fight infection and stop cancer from developing. This late stage of HIV infection is called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). What are the symptoms of HIV infection? Most people have no symptoms or just a mild flu-like illness when they

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Hepatitis B

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. Symptoms of hepatitis B include dark urine, nausea and fatigue. However, many people have no symptoms at all. Hepatitis B infection can be either acute (when the illness lasts for less than 6 months), or chronic (the illness lasts for longer than 6 months). Hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccination. What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It can cause long lasting liver damage. Hepatitis B can be acute or chronic. If a person has acute hepatitis B,

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Gonorrhoea (the clap)

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

What is gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It is sometimes known as ‘the clap’. It can affect the urethra (the tube for urine), cervix (the opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina), anus, throat or eyes. What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea often has no symptoms. In women, if symptoms do occur, they usually develop within 10 days of infection. In women, symptoms may include: unusual vaginal discharge pain, discomfort or burning sensation when passing urine pelvic pain, especially during sex irregular bleeding, especially between periods or after sex anal discharge and

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Genital herpes

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2. It may cause small ulcers or blisters, and stinging or tingling in the genital area, but some people don’t have any signs or symptoms. You can prevent passing on genital herpes if you have it, but you may not know you have it if you don’t have symptoms. If you have genital herpes, you can take antiviral medicines to help your sores heal more quickly, and make the flare-up shorter and less severe — medicines will also reduce your risk

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Chlamydia

By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that usually spreads through unprotected sex. Most people with chlamydia don’t have symptoms, which means you may not know if you or your partner has it. If untreated, chlamydia can cause serious complications such as infertility and chronic pain. Once diagnosed, chlamydia is easy to treat with antibiotics. If you’re under 30 and sexually active you are at greatest risk — you should get checked for chlamydia and other STIs regularly. What is chlamydia? Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) — a disease you can get from having unprotected sex. It’s caused

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