Cold and flu season hits Australia every year, and with it comes the familiar dilemma - do you drag yourself to a GP clinic while feeling terrible, or stay in bed and hope it passes? With telehealth consultations, there is a third option. You can see a doctor from your couch, get a diagnosis, and receive treatment without leaving home.
This guide covers everything you need to know about managing cold and flu symptoms through telehealth in Australia - including when to see a doctor, what treatments are available online, and when you need to seek in-person care.
Cold vs Flu - How to Tell the Difference
While cold and flu share some symptoms, the flu tends to be more severe and come on suddenly. Understanding the difference helps you communicate effectively with your doctor during a telehealth consultation.
Common Cold Symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever (uncommon in adults)
- Generally mild - develops gradually over 1-3 days
Influenza (Flu) Symptoms
- Sudden onset of high fever (38C or above)
- Body aches, muscle pain, and fatigue
- Severe headache
- Dry, persistent cough
- Chills and sweats
- Exhaustion that may last 1-2 weeks
If you are unsure whether you have a cold or the flu, a telehealth doctor can assess your symptoms and advise on the best course of action.
Why Telehealth Is Ideal for Cold and Flu
When you are sick with a cold or flu, telehealth is often the smartest way to see a doctor. Here is why:
- No travel required - consult from bed while resting
- No waiting room exposure - avoid spreading your illness to others
- No picking up additional infections while your immune system is already compromised
- Quick consultations - most appointments take 10-15 minutes
- Same-day prescriptions sent as eScripts to your phone
- Medical certificates issued instantly for work or study
What a Telehealth Doctor Can Do for Cold and Flu
A registered telehealth doctor can provide comprehensive care for cold and flu symptoms, including:
Diagnosis and Assessment
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you have been unwell, your medical history, and any medications you currently take. Based on this, they can determine whether you have a cold, flu, or potentially another condition such as COVID-19, a sinus infection, or bronchitis.
Prescriptions
If medication is needed, your doctor can prescribe:
- Antiviral medication (such as oseltamivir for influenza - most effective within 48 hours of symptom onset)
- Antibiotics if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected (e.g. sinusitis, tonsillitis, chest infection)
- Prescription-strength cough suppressants
- Steroid nasal sprays for severe congestion
All prescriptions are issued as eScripts - sent directly to your phone for collection at any pharmacy.
Medical Certificates
Need time off work or uni? Your telehealth doctor can issue a medical certificate during the consultation. These are legally valid for all employers and educational institutions in Australia.
Referrals and Pathology
If your doctor suspects something beyond a standard cold or flu, they can refer you for pathology (blood tests, swabs) or specialist assessment.
Managing Cold and Flu Symptoms at Home
Alongside medical treatment, these evidence-based strategies can help you recover faster:
- Rest - your body needs energy to fight the infection. Take time off and sleep as much as possible
- Stay hydrated - water, herbal tea, broth, and electrolyte drinks help prevent dehydration, especially with fever
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever, headaches, and body aches (follow dosage instructions)
- Gargle warm salt water for sore throat relief
- Use saline nasal spray or steam inhalation to relieve congestion
- Honey and lemon in warm water can soothe coughs (not suitable for children under 1)
- Keep your environment humid - dry air worsens congestion
When to Seek Urgent or In-Person Care
Most colds and flu cases resolve on their own within 7-10 days. However, you should seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Severe or worsening symptoms after initial improvement
- High fever (above 39C) that does not respond to medication
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
- Coughing up blood or thick green/brown mucus
If you experience a medical emergency, call 000 immediately. Telehealth is not a substitute for emergency care.
Who Is at Higher Risk from Flu Complications?
Some people are more vulnerable to serious flu complications and should see a doctor promptly - whether via telehealth or in person:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Children under 5, especially under 2
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease)
- People with weakened immune systems
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
If you fall into a high-risk group and develop flu symptoms, book a telehealth consultation as soon as possible. Early treatment with antivirals can significantly reduce the severity and duration of illness.
Preventing Cold and Flu
Prevention is always better than treatment. Key strategies include:
- Get your annual flu vaccination (available from your GP, pharmacy, or workplace)
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading infection
- Clean frequently touched surfaces (phones, door handles, keyboards)
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle - regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep support immune function
Why Choose Medidoc for Cold and Flu Consultations?
Medidoc makes it easy to see a doctor when you are feeling unwell:
- Consult with a registered Australian doctor in minutes
- Available 7 days a week with extended hours
- eScripts and medical certificates issued during your consultation
- No need to leave home when you are contagious
- Affordable consultations with transparent pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a telehealth doctor diagnose the flu?
Yes. A telehealth doctor can assess your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors to determine whether you likely have the flu, a cold, or another respiratory illness. If further testing is needed, they can refer you for a flu swab or other pathology.
Can I get antibiotics for a cold or flu via telehealth?
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections like the common cold or influenza. However, if your doctor suspects a secondary bacterial infection - such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, or a chest infection - they can prescribe antibiotics via an eScript.
How quickly can I see a telehealth doctor when I have the flu?
With Medidoc, you can typically see a doctor within minutes of booking. This is especially important for flu, as antiviral medications are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Book now.
Is a telehealth medical certificate valid for work?
Yes. Medical certificates issued by telehealth doctors are legally valid and accepted by all employers and educational institutions in Australia. Learn more about medical certificates.
Should I get a COVID test if I have flu symptoms?
COVID-19, flu, and cold symptoms overlap significantly. Your telehealth doctor can advise whether a COVID test is appropriate based on your symptoms, exposure history, and current community transmission levels.
Feeling Unwell? See a Doctor From Home
Do not suffer through cold and flu symptoms without medical advice. Book a telehealth consultation with Medidoc and get the care you need - prescriptions, medical certificates, and expert guidance - all from the comfort of home.