Cold and flu: When to see your doctor

Despite an exceptionally high number of flu cases in Australia, flu vaccination rates are dropping.¹ Depending on your age and overall health, a common cold or an influenza infection could have serious and even fatal consequences.

Learn more about when it’s time to seek medical help with a cold or the flu.

Colds and the flu are common in Australia.² While the common cold is less severe than an influenza infection, they are both viral respiratory conditions and share some similar symptoms, despite being caused by different viruses.

Both illnesses commonly cause a sore throat, a cough and fatigue.

The more serious of the 2, influenza often causes aches and pains, a high fever and a headache, whereas a cold is more likely to come with a runny nose and sneezing.

The flu also tends to last longer than a cold and can lead to potentially life-threatening complications in some people, including babies and young children, the elderly and those living with chronic health conditions.

For most healthy adults, a common cold will last anywhere from a week to 10 days.³ With the flu, it can take up to 2 weeks or more to feel less fatigued.⁴

Every year, a flu vaccination is available that will help reduce your risk of infection and lessen the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. Ask your GP or pharmacist about how to access the flu vaccine.

Because both the common cold and influenza are viral infections, antibiotics will not be effective as they are designed to treat bacterial infections. Anti-viral medication can be prescribed by your doctor if you are eligible and at risk of serious complications.

Both conditions respond well to lots of rest, plenty of fluids and good nutrition.

Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can help to ease symptoms such as body aches and fevers.

Cold and flu medication available at the chemist is also designed to treat specific symptoms. Find out which cold and flu medications are most effective.

While most healthy adults will recover from a cold or the flu without having to seek medical help, in some cases, it’s very important to see your doctor.

A telehealth appointment with your GP is a good way to check in and get some advice, while not leaving home and exposing others to your illness, or putting yourself at risk of additional infection. It may also be less stressful for your body, especially if you are suffering with fatigue.

“Start with telehealth,” says Bupa GP Dr Janice Tan. “It's quicker, safer and just as effective for most presentations. Your GP will tell you if you need to come in.”

If your doctor thinks an in-person consultation is necessary, wear a mask and let the receptionist know your symptoms as soon as you arrive, as they may be able to offer you an isolated room where you can wait.

“In-person is sometimes necessary,” says Janice. “In person, your doctor can listen to your chest and check your ears. They may also want to rule out a possible complication, such as pneumonia. In-person is always best if you're seriously unwell and need immediate assessment.”

If you or a loved one experiences any of the following symptoms, Janice says to seek medical help immediately:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. This is urgent, don't wait!
• Chest pain or pressure.
• Confusion, severe headache, stiff neck, or sensitivity to light (potential meningitis signs).
• High fever that doesn't come down with paracetamol/ibuprofen, or a fever lasting more than 3–4 days.
• Symptoms that initially improve but then suddenly get worse, this can signal a secondary bacterial infection like pneumonia or sinusitis.
• You're in a high-risk group: over 65, pregnant, immunocompromised, or have a chronic condition like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
• Severe dehydration signalled by inability to keep fluids down, no urine output, extreme dizziness.
• Flu in children: seek help if they're very lethargic, struggling to breathe, not drinking fluids, or if a fever returns after improving.

“If in doubt, call your GP. That's what they're there for.”

Go to your local hospital emergency department or dial triple zero (000) in an emergency.