Category: Infectious Diseases

  • Flu (Influenza) – FAQs

    This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is the flu? The flu (influenza) is a contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It usually causes sudden onset of fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms. It can be more…

  • Common Cold – FAQs

    This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is a common cold? A common cold is a mild viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. It is caused by viruses such as rhinoviruses and usually resolves within 7–10 days. 2.…

  • Acute Bronchitis – FAQs

    This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is acute bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the large airways (bronchi) in the lungs. It usually develops after a viral cold or flu and causes a persistent cough, mucus production, and chest irritation. 2.…

  • Laryngitis – FAQs

    This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is laryngitis? Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box (larynx) usually caused by viral infections, overuse of the voice, allergies, or irritants like smoke. It commonly leads to hoarseness or complete loss of voice. 2. What are…

  • Genital Herpes – FAQs

    1. What is genital herpes? Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause genital herpes. Once infected, the virus remains in the body for life. 2. How is genital herpes spread? Genital herpes is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including…

  • Shingles – FAQs

    1. What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, usually on one side of the body. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The virus can reactivate many years after a person has had chickenpox. 2. Who can get shingles? Anyone who has had…

  • Herpes – FAQs

    1. What is herpes? Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types: HSV-1, which often causes cold sores around the mouth, and HSV-2, which more commonly causes genital herpes. Either type can affect the mouth or genitals. 2. How is herpes spread? Herpes is spread…

  • Sinusitis FAQs

    This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is sinusitis?Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. It can cause facial pain, congestion, and pressure. 2. What are common symptoms of sinusitis?Symptoms may include a…

  • Antibiotics FAQs

    This website provides general health information only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What are antibiotics?Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They work by killing bacteria or stopping them from multiplying. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, such as those that cause colds or flu.…