Show
COVID-19 vaccines: For information about COVID-19 vaccines please go to the Victorian Government's Coronavirus (COVID-19) . What is influenza (flu)?Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications (including pneumonia). It affects people of all ages. The flu is usually spread by breathing in droplets from coughs and sneezes that contain the virus. The flu is a seasonal infection that usually occurs from April to September. Flu seasons vary in severity and duration from year to year. In a year of high influenza activity, it is estimated that the flu can contribute to more than 3,300 deaths in Australia. Even healthy people can sometimes die from the flu. Some Victorians are at increased risk of serious disease and complications of flu, like young children, the elderly, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with a weakened immune system or a chronic medical condition. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there have been low rates of the flu in Australia due to closed international borders and social distancing measures. However, after borders reopened in 2021, influenza has begun to increase in Australia. Vaccination is key to protecting yourself and those around you from the flu. For more information visit Stay well this winter. Symptoms of influenza (flu)The most common symptoms of the flu are:
Other symptoms can be:
Having the flu is even more likely if you have been in contact with someone who already has it. Diagnosing influenza (flu)Influenza and other kinds of viruses can only be confirmed by a doctor after a nose or throat swab has returned positive results. Difference between influenza (flu) and COVID-19The symptoms of and the flu can be similar. If you are unwell with flu-like symptoms, contact the hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or your GP to check if you require COVID-19 testing. The symptoms of COVID-19 to watch out for are:
Some people may also experience headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. What to expect with influenza (flu)Symptoms of the flu can hit very quickly and may last several weeks. A bout of the flu typically follows this pattern:
What about influenza (flu) complications?In some cases of the flu, severe illness and complications (such as pneumonia and bronchitis) can develop. This can result in hospitalisation and even death. The flu can also make some existing medical conditions worse. In Victoria, flu vaccination is free for people with a higher risk of severe complications associated with the flu:
How can I avoid getting influenza (flu)?Getting an influenza (flu) vaccine every year is recommended for everyone aged 6 months or older. People in the above groups are eligible for free flu vaccination each year under the National Immunisation . While not 100% effective, the flu vaccine provides a high level of protection and can reduce symptoms in those still getting sick. COVID-19 can be co-administered (that is, given on the same day, one after the other) with a flu . There is no requirement for a time interval between these vaccines. Wearing a face mask and practicing good hand hygiene can help to reduce your chances of catching the flu or passing it on to others. I think I have influenza (flu) – should I see a doctor?Anyone at a higher risk of serious illness with flu-like symptoms should see their doctor as soon as possible. Most people who are generally healthy won’t need to see their doctor for the flu. As symptoms of the flu are similar to COVID-19, talk to your doctor about testing for COVID-19 infection. If you have the flu, try to rest, maintain a good fluid intake, and manage your symptoms. This will help you recover and prevent dehydration. Your immune system will fight the infection and symptoms will usually clear up on their own. If you do need to see a GP for your symptoms, make sure you call ahead first so they can make sure there’s no one in an at-risk group around when you have your appointment. When to seek medical attentionSee your doctor if you have any concerns or are in a high-risk group for severe infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: How can I avoid giving influenza (flu) to other people?It is important we all play our part in helping fight the flu and to protect our health system. Aside from getting your flu shot, follow these 3 simple steps to stop the spread of the flu: Step 1 - Cough or sneeze into your elbowIf you feel a cough or sneeze is coming on, make sure to cough or sneeze into your elbow. It’s a part of your body less likely to touch other surfaces and will help stop the spread of nasty germs. Step 2 - Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly
The best things you can do to look after yourself when you have the flu are:
What medications should I take for influenza (flu)?The flu is a viral infection so antibiotics won’t help and should not be taken. Antiviral medications, if started in the first 2 days after symptoms start, can shorten the length of your illness. These need to be prescribed by your doctor. Decongestants and simple pain relievers can help you feel better while your body's immune system fights off the infection. Tips for buying over-the-counter medicationsFollow these tips for buying over-the-counter medication for the flu:
Useful tips to aid recovery from influenza (flu)Other useful flu recovery tips include:
Where to get help
Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. |