Explore clinically accurate information about symptoms, remedies and complications to help you stay well this winter.
What’s the difference between a cold and flu?
With winter comes the dreaded cold and flu season, and while cold and flu are often confused, the flu is more serious. Colds creep in with mild symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat, usually clearing up in a week or so.
The flu strikes fast, often with fever, body aches, exhaustion and it can lead to serious illness. It’s linked to around 3,500 deaths and 18,000 hospitalisations in Australia each year.1
Simple steps like good hygiene and vaccination may help protect you and those closest to you.
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The best flu treatments and remedies for winter
When the flu hits, it’s not the time to soldier on, your body needs rest. That’s doctor’s orders, according to Bupa GP Dr Janice Tan.
Articles on cough, cold and flu
Did you know?
“Getting the flu vaccine is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your community.”
- Dr Tony MacDermott, Bupa Medical Director
Cold and flu care at your fingertips
Book online doctors
Access online doctors for simple medical health needs like requesting a prescription, asking for a medical certificate, or medical advice that may not need a physical consultation. Available to eligible Bupa members.
In an emergency, call 000
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Get chemist delivery
Bupa health insurance members can have prescriptions filled by local chemists and get them delivered to their door by registered couriers. You can also order over-the-counter goods. Delivery address must be within 8km of a participating pharmacy.
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Flu fighting recipes
Chicken zoodle soup
Nothing says ‘comfort food’ like a steaming bowl of chicken soup in winter. This soup is light but hearty, and packed with traditional veggies and herbs.
Italian winter minestrone
Our recipe for mid-winter minestrone is filled with fragrant herbs and plenty of tomatoes and veggies, all soaked up by your favourite pasta.
French-style vegetable and lentil soup
Warm the heart with this scrumptious recipe for French-style lentil soup.
Lentil bolognaise
Whether you’re looking for a cheaper dinner option or just trying to get more protein and fibre into your diet, try this rich and hearty lentil bolognaise.
1Australian Centre for Disease Control. (2025). Seasonal flu (seasonal influenza). Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care.