Cold and Flu

When Should I Consult a Doctor for Cold and Flu?

Cold and flu are common viral infections that often resolve on their own, but medical attention may be needed in certain cases. Speak to a doctor if:

• Persistent Symptoms: Symptoms last longer than 10 days without improvement.
• High Fever: A fever above 38°C persists for more than 3 days.
• Severe Symptoms: You experience severe sore throat, ear pain, or sinus pain.
• Breathing Difficulties: Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain occurs.
• Worsening Condition: Symptoms improve but then worsen again (possible secondary infection).
• Vulnerable Groups: If you’re pregnant, elderly, or have a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes.

Please Note: Most cold and flu cases can be managed at home or via telehealth. For severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or high fever, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital.

Causes of Cold and Flu

Cold and flu are caused by viruses, with different strains responsible for each:

• Rhinoviruses: The most common cause of colds.
• Influenza Viruses: Cause the flu, with types A, B, and C being the most common.
• Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing) or touching contaminated surfaces.
• Risk Factors: Crowded places, cold weather, weakened immune system, or close contact with infected individuals.

Cold and Flu Symptoms

Symptoms of cold and flu can overlap but vary in intensity:

• Common Cold Symptoms: Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, mild cough, sneezing, and mild fatigue.
• Flu Symptoms: High fever, chills, body aches, severe fatigue, headache, and dry cough.
• Serious Signs: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion (more common with flu).

Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or persist.

How Does Telehealth Work for Cold and Flu Treatment?

Telehealth for cold and flu management allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, offering convenience and flexibility. Get easy consultations with licensed online doctors in Australia within 15 minutes once you choose the consultation type, complete an online form, and payment. Telehealth allows getting your prescriptions or online referrals easily. Here are some benefits of telehealth:

• 24/7 Access: Get instant access to registered medical practitioners round-the-clock.
• Flexibility: Speak to a doctor in your break or from the comfort of your home.
• Medication Management: Get instant scripts for symptom relief or antivirals (if appropriate).
• Other Telehealth Services: Obtain medical certificates, pharmacy delivery, or referrals for further testing if needed.

How Can I Tell If I Have a Cold or the Flu?

While colds and flu share some symptoms, the flu tends to be more severe. Colds often start with a sore throat and runny nose, with mild fatigue. The flu comes on suddenly with high fever, body aches, and extreme tiredness. If you’re unsure, an online doctor can help assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate care.

Can Cold and Flu Be Prevented?

Yes, you can reduce your risk of catching a cold or flu with these steps:

• Vaccination: Get an annual flu shot to protect against influenza.
• Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
• Avoid Contact: Stay away from sick individuals and crowded places during flu season.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a strong immune system with a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate sleep.

Can an Online Doctor Help If I Can’t See a Local GP?

Yes, an online doctor can be accessed from anywhere in Australia, making it convenient for people who cannot find doctor appointments, people living in rural/remote areas, or those with mobility issues. Stop searching for “doctor near me” and embrace the convenience of telehealth appointments with Hola Health.

What If I Need to Speak to a Doctor After Hours?

Hola offers 24/7 virtual doctor appointments, making it easy to speak to a qualified doctor in Australia after hours, on weekends, or on public holidays. With our after-hours doctor consultations, you can speak to a licensed medical practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia.

How Can We Help?

We provide a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your phone or any smart device. Using our secure telehealth platform, you can have a video call with a registered health practitioner or a doctor on-demand in 15 minutes or less. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury can happen anytime, day or night, and need immediate medical attention.

Much like an in-person GP clinic, our telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:

• Pre-existing conditions, family history, and lifestyle.
• Preferred treatment options and how to access them.
• Individualised advice to manage your condition.
• Referrals or scripts for various conditions (if required) at the discretion of the doctor.

Talk to a Doctor Today

Telehealth helps you connect with an AHPRA-licensed online doctor within minutes. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to qualified medical practitioners in Australia within 15 minutes for:

• Telehealth appointment
• Instant scripts
• Medical certificate
• Doctor referral