Infections and infestations collection

Infections and infestations collection

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Infections and infestations collection
  • Athlete's foot - Learn more

    c. Treatment options, such as antifungal creams, can improve symptoms within a few weeks.

  • Bed bugs - Learn more

    Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on blood. They may be found on mattresses, bedding and other soft furniture. Bites from bed bugs can be very itchy and annoying, but are usually not serious.

  • Bronchitis - Learn more

    Bronchitis is a common condition that occurs when the lungs become inflamed. It causes coughing and difficult breathing. Acute bronchitis refers to the short-term type, and may occur in the aftermath of cold or flu. While the cough may be severe, it typically lasts for only a few weeks.

  • Cellulitis - Learn more

    Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin, usually occurring from a break in the skin, such as a cut, sore, scratch or burn. Skin affected by cellulitis quickly becomes red, swollen, hot and tender. Antibiotics may be needed to clear up the infection.

  • Chickenpox - Learn more

    Chickenpox is a common, contagious childhood illness, caused by the varicella virus. It causes a distinctive, itchy rash, and normally resolves on its own. A vaccine is available that can help reduce your chance of getting the condition.

  • Chlamydia - Learn more

    Chlamydia is a common sexually-transmitted infection (STI). Most people with chlamydia will not have symptoms, but others may experience pain when urinating, during intercourse, or have an abnormal discharge. If sexually active, it is important to get regular check-ups so it can be detected early...

  • Cholera - Learn more

    Cholera is an infectious disease that causes severe diarrhoea. It is usually acquired by consuming contaminated food or water during travel to areas where cholera is common. The greatest danger is the dehydration diarrhoea causes. Following some advice can help prevent this condition.

  • Cold sores - Learn more

    Cold sores are small blisters that usually form inside and around the mouth. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can be spread through direct contact with the sores or saliva. Once you have had cold sores, it may develop again.

  • COVID-19 - Learn more

    Novel coronavirus (Covid-19) is a new strain of the coronavirus identified in Wuhan City in China in December 2019.This novel (new) coronavirus has caused a global infectious disease pandemic for more than two years.

  • Croup - Learn more

    Croup is a common childhood condition characterised by a barking cough and noisy breathing. It occurs when an infection with a virus causes inflammation and swelling of the voice box and windpipe, making it harder to breathe. Croup can be a serious, life-threatening condition, but most cases will...

  • Dengue fever - Learn more

    Dengue fever is an infectious viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Most people with dengue fever suffer unpleasant symptoms, such as fever, headache and vomiting, but will make a full recovery. However, repeated infections can result in a form of haemorrh...

  • Diphtheria - Learn more

    Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that may cause a fever, breathing difficulties and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, it can lead to severe complications. It is now a rare condition in developed nations due to the widespread use of the diphtheria vaccine.

  • Ebola - Learn more

    Ebola is an infectious viral disease which spreads through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids. Ebola is a serious disease with high mortality rates. However, the disease is only present in a few countries and avoiding travel to these nations is the best prevention strategy.

  • Genital herpes - Learn more

    Genital herpes is a common sexually-transmitted infection that is caused by a virus. Some people with the condition will not experience any symptoms, while others will develop small blisters or ulcers on or around their genitals. Following some advice can help reduce symptoms and help prevent spr...

  • Genital warts - Learn more

    Genital warts are a common sexually-transmitted infection that cause small, painless lumps to grow near the genitals. They are contagious through skin contact. Genital warts can be removed with medication, or by simple procedures performed by a doctor.

  • Gonorrhoea - Learn more

    Gonorrhoea is a common sexually-transmitted infection. It may not have any symptoms, but if it’s untreated, it can lead to complications. If sexually active, it is important to get regular check-ups so it can be detected early and treated.

  • Haemophilus influenzae type B - Learn more

    Despite their name, Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) bacteria do not cause influenza. Hib bacteria can cause other serious diseases including pneumonia and meningitis, particularly in children under the age of five. Fortunately, Hib can be prevented with immunisation.

  • Hand, foot and mouth disease - Learn more

    Hand, foot and mouth disease is a mild viral illness which resolves itself in a few days. Affecting mainly children, it’s more common in warmer weather. Good personal hygiene and teaching children to cover their coughs and sneezes can help prevent the spread of the virus.

  • Head lice - Learn more

    Head lice are small insects that tend to live on and feed from the human scalp, causing intense itching and scratching of the affected area. They are easily spread from person to person, most commonly amongst children. Adhering to treatment advice can prevent them returning.

  • Hepatitis A - Learn more

    Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. Although symptoms can include fatigue, fever, nausea and jaundice, many people infected with the virus show no symptoms. Hepatitis A can be prevented with vaccination.

  • Hepatitis B - Learn more

    Hepatitis B is a viral inflammation of the liver which can be spread through sexual and blood-to-blood contact. While most people get better, some people may develop liver failure or even liver cancer in the future, however treatment options are available.

  • Hepatitis C - Learn more

    Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus entering the blood. It’s mainly passed on through contact with the blood of an infected person and tends to be a long-term condition. No vaccine is available for hepatitis C.

  • HIV and AIDS - Learn more

    Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), if left untreated, causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is an infection that attacks the immune system and reduces its ability to fight infection. Advances in treatment have improved outcomes for people with HIV.

  • Impetigo - Learn more

    Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection with itchy, red sores and blisters that may form a yellow-to-brown crust. It is common in children of school age is often known as school sores. Treatment can usually clear up the sores in about a week.

  • Jock itch - Learn more

    Jock itch refers to an uncomfortable itch experienced in the groin. It is a common condition caused by a fungal infection, known as tinea. It is treated using antifungal creams and can be prevented by reducing moisture build-up in the groin.

  • Listeriosis - Learn more

    Listeriosis is a condition caused by infection with a bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes. It will typically pass after a few days with no lasting effect, however, listeriosis can be extremely dangerous, especially to unborn babies and infants. The best way to prevent listeriosis is with good ...

  • Malaria - Learn more

    Malaria is a parasitic blood infection acquired through the bite of certain infected mosquitos. Malaria destroys red blood cells in the body causing tiredness, fever and unwellness. Taking preventative measures when travelling to areas with malaria is recommended.

  • Measles - Learn more

    Measles is a highly contagious viral disease which mainly affects children. Children who get measles typically have a fever, sore throat, spots in the mouth and a generalised skin rash. There can be serious complications from measles. Fortunately, it is now rare in developed nations due to the me...

  • Meningitis - Learn more

    Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Viral meningitis is more common, however it is the bacterial meningitis that is dangerous with potential serious complications. Meningitis requires prompt medical assessment.

  • MERS - Learn more

    Middle-East respiratory syndrome, or MERS, is a viral infection that mainly affects the respiratory system. It was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and has been linked to the Middle East in all cases since.

  • Middle ear infections - Learn more

    A middle ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, occurs when fluid trapped behind the eardrum becomes infected with a virus or bacteria, causing an earache, fever, temporary hearing loss and unwellness. In young children symptoms can also include loss of balance, reduced hunger, disrupte...

  • Mononucleosis - Learn more

    Mononucleosis, or glandular fever, is a common disease affecting mainly adolescents and young adults. Also known as the ‘kissing disease’, it is commonly spread through saliva. It causes a fever, tiredness, sore throat and swollen lymph glands. The majority of cases make a good recovery, although...

  • Mosquito-borne illnesses - Learn more

    Mosquitoes can transmit a variety of disease-causing microorganisms, including many kinds of viruses and several kinds of parasites. Often, different species of mosquitoes, found in different locations, will transmit different diseases.

  • Mumps - Learn more

    Mumps is an infectious viral disease. It is mostly a childhood disease and, although usually a mild illness, mumps can have serious consequences. A mumps vaccine is available and given as part of a combined vaccine during routine childhood vaccination.

  • Outer ear infections - Learn more

    An outer ear infection, or otitis externa, is inflammation and swelling of the skin that lines the ear canal between the opening of the ear and the eardrum. It is characterised by pain and itching in the ear, temporary hearing loss and a discharge of smelly yellow-green pus.

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease - Learn more

    Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and ...

  • Pneumonia - Learn more

    Pneumonia is a lung infection, usually caused by bacteria or viruses, often after a cold or flu. It causes air sacs in the lung to fill with fluid and mucus, affecting breathing. Pneumonia can be more serious in children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

  • Polio - Learn more

    Polio is a contagious viral disease, mainly affecting children. It can cause paralysis, breathing difficulties and even death. Once a major public health concern, with the development of vaccines in the 1950’s and 1960’s polio has now been virtually eradicated.

  • Pubic lice - Learn more

    Pubic lice, otherwise known as crabs, are insects that favour the pubic area, although they can be found anywhere on the body. The itching they cause can be very frustrating, but treatment is relatively straightforward.

  • Rabies - Learn more

    Rabies is a serious viral infection that is passed on through the bite of an infected animal. It causes fever, pain and extreme changes in behaviour and can even be fatal. Following some advice can help prevent this condition.

  • Rubella - Learn more

    Rubella is a viral disease which generally causes a mild illness and usually resolves after a few days. However, death or serious birth defects can occur if the virus is contracted during pregnancy. Vaccines exist for children at twelve and eighteen months and also for adults.

  • SARS - Learn more

    SARS is a highly infectious respiratory viral disease, which presents much like flu (fever, sore throat, dry cough, headache, chills, stiff muscles). Quarantining of patients is the only option, however there have been no reported cases of SARS since 2004.

  • Scabies - Learn more

    Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites. It causes severe itching and a rash from the mites burrowing into the skin to lay eggs. Scabies is treatable using prescription medicine.

  • Scarlet fever - Learn more

    Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection characterised by a rough, red rash that starts on one part of the body and then spreads to other areas. Other symptoms include fever, itchiness, flushing in the face and a red, swollen tongue. Scarlet fever most commonly occurs in children between two and 10...

  • Shingles - Learn more

    Shingles is a skin rash caused by the re-activation of an otherwise dormant virus responsible for causing chicken pox. It can be highly uncomfortable, but early treatment can reduce its severity.

  • Sinusitis - Learn more

    Sinusitis refers to inflammation and swelling of the mucus layer that lines the sinuses. Common symptoms include pain in the face, a blocked or runny nose, fever and headache. In most cases, symptoms develop quickly within a day or two and then clear after about 10 days.

  • Slapped cheek disease - Learn more

    Slapped cheek disease, also known as fifth disease or slapped cheek syndrome, is a common viral disease in children. Featuring a distinctive red rash on the cheeks, it is usually a mild illness that does not require treatment.

  • Strep throat - Learn more

    Strep throat, short for streptococcal sore throat, is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Along with soreness, common symptoms include a swollen throat and lymph nodes, chills and fever. It can be treated with pain medications and antibiotics.

  • Syphilis - Learn more

    Syphilis is a sexually-transmitted infection. It is common for infected individuals to not know they have it, therefore, it is important to get regular checks. It can have serious complications if not treated. Fortunately, treatment is straightforward with antibiotics.

  • Tetanus - Learn more

    Tetanus is an infection which usually occurs when a particular bacteria contaminates an open wound. After infection, the tetanus bacteria release a toxin which attaches to nerve cells and causes muscles to spasm. Tetanus is a serious condition and can lead to death if left untreated.

  • The common cold - Learn more

    A common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose, coughing and sneezing. They are not usually serious and will generally get better by themselves within a few days to a week.

  • The flu - Learn more

    The flu, or influenza, is a common viral infection, which causes fevers, headache, coughing and muscle aches. It is different to the common cold, which usually has relatively milder symptoms. Rarely, complications can occur with the elderly, children and people with weakened immune systems.

  • Thrush - Learn more

    Candidiasis is a common infection that occurs in the mouth, vagina or nipples when there is an overgrowth in these areas of a particular fungal yeast, called Candida albicans. Other names for candidiasis include thrush, monilia or a yeast infection.

  • Tick-borne encephalitis - Learn more

    Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that is passed to humans by tiny, blood-sucking ticks found in areas stretching from Western Europe to Japan. It can result from a tick bite, or from drinking unpasteurised milk.

  • Tinea - Learn more

    Tinea, also known as ringworm, is a common skin infection with a characteristic ring-like appearance. It is caused by several types of fungus and can appear on different parts of the body including the scalp, chest, feet, groin, face, hands and nails. Tinea is very contagious but easily treated.

  • Tinea versicolor - Learn more

    Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally exists on the skin. It mainly affects the trunk of the body and extremities. Tinea versicolor can’t be prevented, but antifungal agents may be used to manage yeast overgrowth.

  • Tonsillitis - Learn more

    Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils caused by infection with a virus or bacteria. The tonsils are two small glands, located at the back of the throat. They help fight infections and stop viruses and bacteria from spreading throughout the body.

  • Toxoplasmosis - Learn more

    Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can occur when a person eats uncooked meat, or comes into contact with animal faeces, most commonly from cats. Healthy people will often show no obvious symptoms, however, the condition can cause complications in people with compromised immune systems a...

  • Traveller's diarrhoea - Learn more

    Traveller's diarrhoea is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects travellers, typically due to poor sanitation. It usually causes urgent and frequent diarrhoea. This can be unpleasant and potentially lead to dehydration. It is important to keep hydrated and medications may b...

  • Tuberculosis - Learn more

    Tuberculosis, or TB, is a potentially serious bacterial disease. About one in three people in the world is infected with TB, but many people will not show significant symptoms of the disease. If you think you may have TB, it is important to see your doctor.

  • Typhoid fever - Learn more

    Typhoid fever is caused by a strain of salmonella bacteria. It is transmitted via contaminated food or water, and can cause severe diarrhoea and a rash. Typhoid fever is much more common in developing countries.

  • Urinary tract infections - Learn more

    Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. This can cause problems with urination including increased frequency and burning sensations. While the condition can be frustrating, symptoms will typically subside with proper treatment.

  • Urinary tract infections in children - Learn more

    Younger children often have vague symptoms when they have a urinary tract infection (UTI). These include fever, vomiting, poor feeding and irritability. In older children, there may be frequent urination, burning sensations when urinating, fatigue, or abdominal pain. UTIs in children may require ...

  • Warts - Learn more

    Warts are small, painless lumps that grow on the skin, commonly on the hands, fingers, knees and face. They will often go away on their own but can otherwise be removed with a quick and easy treatment.

  • Whooping cough - Learn more

    Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious disease that causes inflammation in the respiratory tract. Pertussis causes many deaths, especially among infants, but can be prevented with immunisation.

  • Yellow fever - Learn more

    Yellow fever is an infectious viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and sub-tropical climates. It can be fatal, and is a serious health concern. A vaccine is available and is routinely given to people who live in, or are intending to travel to, countries where the disease is common.