How Do I Protect Myself and My Family This Flu Season?
It’s almost flu season in Australia again, and the best way to reduce your risk of serious illness is through the flu vaccine. Combined with good hygiene, the flu vaccine will help you and your family avoid or reduce the risk of serious illness this winter.
FACTS ON THIS PAGE
- How Do I Protect Myself and My Family This Flu Season?
- Super-K Flu
- What Is the flu and how is it contracted?
- Recognising Flu Symptoms
- When Should I See a GP?
- Common flu treatments
- Managing flu symptoms at home
- FAQs
- Contact Us
Super-K Flu
This year, the CSIRO has identified a fast-spreading influenza strain known as Super-K flu. This strain is contributing to earlier and more widespread flu activity in Australia. While it doesn’t seem to cause more severe illness, it spreads more easily, leading to higher case numbers and increased pressure on our healthcare services. Getting vaccinated can reduce the severity of Super-K and other flu strains and help protect vulnerable groups in our community.
What is the flu, and how is it contracted?
The influenza virus (AKA flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also contract it by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face and mouth. Unlike a common cold, the seasonal flu can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Recognising Flu Symptoms
Common flu symptoms typically come on suddenly and can last for several days or even more, and can include:
- Fever and chills
- Body aches and fatigue
- Dry cough and sore throat
- Headache
- Runny or blocked nose
As mentioned, some groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu. Young children have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to severe illness and hospitalisation. Older adults are more likely to experience complications, such as pneumonia, and may have existing health conditions that increase risk. And, individuals with weakened immune systems, due to illness or medical treatment, are at greater risk of severe outcomes and should prioritise annual flu vaccination.
When Should I See a GP?
Seeing a GP at Nillumbik Medical Centre early can help prevent flu complications. It’s important to seek medical advice if you have a cold or flu and experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Persistent high fever
- Symptoms lasting longer than expected
Common flu treatments
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for the flu. Treatment tends to focus on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery. Your GP may recommend rest and hydration, pain-relief medication, and, in some cases, antiviral medications to alleviate your symptoms.
Managing flu symptoms at home
Managing the flu at home should focus on comfort and supporting your body’s natural recovery process. Prioritising rest allows your immune system to work effectively, while staying hydrated with water, herbal teas, or broths can help prevent dehydration and soothe irritation. Simple measures like steam inhalation or warm showers can ease congestion and discomfort associated with cold and flu symptoms, and light, nourishing foods such as soups can support your energy levels. If your symptoms worsen or include high fever, breathing difficulties, or chest pain, seek medical advice right away.
FAQs
Q: Is the flu vaccine safe?
YES, the flu vaccine program in Australia uses vaccines that are rigorously tested and updated each year.
Q: When should I get vaccinated?
It’s recommended you get your flu shot before peak flu season, ideally in autumn.
Q: Can I still get the flu after being vaccinated?
Yes, it’s possible, but the flu vaccine in Australia helps reduce the severity of symptoms and lowers the risk of serious complications.
Q: How long does the flu usually last?
Most flu symptoms improve within a week or two, although fatigue and cough can linger for longer in some cases.
Contact Us
Government-funded and private flu vaccinations are now available at Nillumbik Medical Centre. Eligibility for funded vaccines should be discussed with your GP before booking. Contact Nillumbik Medical Centre to book your flu vaccination or book online via our AMS App.
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