Diseases A to Z

Smallpox is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. In the past, it was a major public health problem and caused millions of deaths globally. Smallpox was eradicated in 1980 through vaccination – this remains one of the greatest public health successes in history.

Syphilis is a sexually transmissible infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It can go undetected, so regular testing is important. It’s easy to cure if found early, but can be serious if untreated. We monitor and report on syphilis case numbers and trends and provide guidelines to minimise the risk.

Tetanus is a rare but serious disease caused by bacteria in soil, dust and manure. People can get infected through skin wounds. Getting vaccinated is the best protection. We monitor and report on tetanus in our community.

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs. People with tuberculosis disease in their lungs can spread it to others through airborne transmission. Early treatment of people with tuberculosis is the best way to prevent serious illness and spread to others.

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are serious bacterial infections. They spread through contaminated food and water. Getting vaccinated and good food safety practices are the best protection. We monitor and report on typhoid and paratyphoid fever. We provide guidelines to minimise the risk.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a bacterium that causes gastroenteritis and other infections. It mainly spreads to people when they eat contaminated seafood. Safe food practices are the best protection. We monitor and report on national case numbers and trends.

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It spreads through respiratory droplets and can be serious, especially for babies. Getting vaccinated is the best protection. We monitor and report on pertussis in our community, including national case numbers and trends.

Yellow fever is caused by a virus that spreads to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can be serious and cause death. Preventing mosquito bites and getting vaccinated are the best protection. We monitor the global yellow fever situation.

Zika virus spreads to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can be serious, especially for unborn babies. Preventing mosquito bites is the best protection. Read more about Zika virus and how to protect yourself and others.