As the cooler months approach, it’s essential to prepare for the upcoming influenza (flu) season. Influenza is more than just a common cold — it’s a contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious health complications, especially in vulnerable individuals. Here’s what you need to know about the flu and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is Influenza (the Flu)?
Influenza (the flu) is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract that can cause sudden and severe illness. It spreads mainly through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can affect people of all ages.
Flu is a seasonal infection, typically occurring between July and October in Western Australia (WA). During flu season, people tend to spend more time indoors and in close contact with others, making it easier for the virus to spread.
There are four types of influenza viruses — A, B, C and D — with types A and B being responsible for most seasonal flu outbreaks.
The virus that causes influenza is different from the virus that causes COVID-19, although the two illnesses can share similar symptoms.
Even healthy individuals can experience serious complications such as pneumonia, and in some cases, death. However, the following groups are particularly vulnerable:
- Young children
- Pregnant women
- Elderly people
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- People with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions
Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and others.
What Are the Symptoms?
Flu symptoms can come on suddenly and may last for several days or weeks. Common symptoms include:
- High fever (38°C or higher) and chills
- Cough
- Headache
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Severe fatigue
- Sore throat
- Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
In some cases, especially in children, additional symptoms may occur:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
While these symptoms are common, they can vary in severity and may resemble those of other respiratory infections.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Extremely unwell
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe vomiting
- Fever with a rash
These may indicate serious complications and require prompt medical care.
Can I Diagnose Influenza at Home?
Yes — rapid antigen self-tests (RATs) are now available over the counter and can help you detect influenza at home. These tests work similarly to those used for COVID-19 and are quick and simple to use.
Some multi-virus RATs can detect several viruses at once, including:
- Influenza A
- Influenza B
- COVID-19
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
These are especially useful during peak respiratory virus season when multiple viruses may be circulating.
If you test positive or are concerned about your symptoms — particularly if you’re in a high-risk group — speak with your GP for personalised advice and care.
Preventing the Spread of Influenza
There are several effective ways to reduce your risk of catching or spreading the flu:
- Get vaccinated annually — recommended for everyone aged 6 months or over
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid close contact with people who are unwell
- Stay home if you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms
A strong immune system can help you fight off infections more effectively. To lower your chances of getting sick, try the following tips:
- Get adequate sleep each night (7-9 hours)
- Eat a nutritious, balanced diet
- Stay well hydrated
- Stay physically active
- Manage stress through mindfulness, exercise, or rest
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
Looking After Yourself When You Have the Flu
If you come down with the flu, the most important things you can do are rest, stay home, and stay hydrated. Most people recover in 7–10 days, though symptoms can leave you feeling very fatigued, especially in the early stages.
- Rest: Your body needs energy to fight the virus. Take it easy and get plenty of sleep.
- Stay home: Avoid work, school, and public places while unwell — especially when you’re most contagious. Adults are usually contagious for 3-5 days of their illness, while children may remain contagious for up to 7-10 days.
- Keep hydrated: Flu can cause fluid loss through fever and sweating. Aim to drink water or clear fluids regularly — a glass every hour while awake is ideal. If your urine is dark, it’s a sign you need to drink more.
What About Medications?
- Antibiotics won’t help — they do not work against viral infections like the flu unless there’s a secondary bacterial infection.
- Antiviral medications may help shorten the illness if taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms. These must be prescribed by your GP and are typically reserved for high-risk individuals.
- Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, lozenges, or throat gargles can relieve symptoms like fever, body aches, and sore throat. Always follow the instructions on the packaging, or use as directed by your healthcare professional.
Can the Flu Be Prevented?
Yes — while the flu vaccine may not prevent every case, it significantly reduces your risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and complications. Even healthy individuals can catch and spread the flu.
Influenza viruses change frequently, meaning your immune system may not always recognise new strains. To keep up with these changes, flu vaccines are updated each year based on global research into the strains most likely to circulate. This is why annual vaccination is recommended — it ensures you have the best possible protection each flu season.
An annual flu vaccine is recommended for all individuals aged 6 months or over.
As of the date of writing, everyone in Western Australia (WA) aged 6 months or over may be eligible for a free flu vaccine through one of the following programs.
Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) – eligible groups include:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months or over
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- People aged 65 years or over
- People aged 6 months or over who have medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of getting serious disease:
- Cardiac disease
- Chronic respiratory condition
- Immunocompromising condition
- Haematological disorder
- Chronic metabolic disorder
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic neurological condition
- Long term aspirin therapy in children aged 5 to 10 years
Your healthcare provider can advise if you or your child are eligible under the NIP.
From 1st May to 30th June 2025, individuals aged 5 to 64 years who are not otherwise eligible under the NIP are eligible to receive a free State-funded flu vaccine in WA. This includes individuals aged 6 months or over from interstate or overseas, as well as those without a Medicare card.
At the Health Hub at Eaton Fair, we pride ourselves on providing affordable, quality health care in new state of the art medical facilities. We are proud to be a participating immunisation provider in WA. If you or a family member would like to book a flu vaccine, or if you have any questions about the flu vaccine, our friendly team is here to help.
Call us on (08) 9785 6000; or visit our website to book online to secure your appointment today at The Health Hub At Eaton Fair
Reference
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/flu
https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine
https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/articles/f_i/flu-influenza
https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/articles/f_i/flu-influenza-vaccine
https://www.health.wa.gov.au/articles/f_i/influenza-immunisation-program
