Disease information
Chickenpox (varicella)
With its typical red blistering and itchy rash, chickenpox is a highly contagious but generally mild infection.
Cholera
Although rare in Australian, this acute bacterial infection can cause severe diarrhoea and vomiting leading to rapid dehydration.
Diphtheria
While now extremely rare in Australia, diphtheria continues to cause illness overseas.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) causes a bacterial infection that can lead to serious illness, especially in young children.
Hepatitis A
This disease of the liver is caused by the hepatitis A virus. Symptoms may last for several weeks, but most people fully recover.
Hepatitis B
This disease of the liver is transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a common infection that may lead to cervical and other genital cancers in a small group of people.
Japanese encephalitis
This virus is found in many parts of Asia and is passed from animals – mainly pigs and wading birds – to humans via mosquitoes. While symptoms are rare, it can lead to serious, long-term complications.
Malaria
This infection of the liver and blood is caused by mosquito-borne parasites. In Australia, almost all cases of malaria are acquired while travelling.
Meningococcal disease
Initial symptoms of meningococcal disease can be difficult to recognise, and can easily be mistaken for a common cold or virus.
Pneumococcal disease
A bacterial infection that usually affects the very young and the elderly. Others can be at risk of complications, too.
Polio
Polio is rare in Australia but is a serious disease that is caused by infection with poliovirus.
Rabies
The rabies virus affects the nervous system and brain. A bite or scratch from an infected animal could put you at risk of rabies.
Rotavirus
In infants and young children, rotavirus disease is the most common cause of severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
Rubella
Also called German measles, rubella is generally a mild infection. Yet it can have serious, lifelong consequences for unborn babies or can lead to miscarriage.
Seasonal Influenza (flu)
This highly contagious viral infection can affect anyone and is more common in winter.
Shingles (herpes zoster)
Shingles (herpes zoster) is a disease that is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Tetanus
Caused by bacteria commonly found in soil and manure, which enter the body through wounds or breaks in the skin.
Tuberculosis
This bacterial infection, is uncommon in Australia. However, it may impact travellers to certain areas in Africa, Asia and Central and South America.
Typhoid
This bacterial infection is spread via contaminated food and water. It is common in countries with poor hygiene and untreated drinking water.
Whooping cough (pertussis)
This bacterial infection is highly contagious and affects people of all ages. It can cause serious disease in babies and complications in older adults.
Yellow fever
This mosquito-borne virus is found in Africa and Central and South America. Proof of immunisation is needed if you are travelling from a country with risk.
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PM-AU-AVX-WCNT-190027 Date of GSK Approval: January 2021