Winter in Australia often brings a noticeable rise in coughs, colds, sore throats, and viral illnesses. In 2026,many Australians are continuing to experience seasonal waves of respiratory infections including COVID-19 variants, influenza A and B, RSV, rhinovirus, and the common cold.
Because many of these illnesses share similar symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to know what you may have— and whether you should seek medical advice.
The good news is that telehealth makes it easy to speak with an Australian GP from home when you are feeling unwell. With Private Medical, you can book an online doctor appointment for cold and flu symptoms, medical advice, prescriptions, referrals, or medical certificates where appropriate.
Why So Many Viruses Circulate During Winter
Cooler weather often means people spend more time indoors in close contact with others, allowing viruses to spread more easily. Dry air and colder temperatures may also affect the body’s natural immune defences.
Several viruses commonly circulate during the Australian winter season, including:
- COVID-19 variants
- Influenza A and B
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- Rhinovirus
- Seasonal common cold viruses
While symptoms can overlap, there are some differences that may help identify the cause.
COVID-19 Variants
COVID-19 continues to evolve,with newer variants often causing upper respiratory symptoms similar to coldsor flu.
Common symptoms may include:
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Dry cough
- Congestion
- Headache
- Body aches
- Loss of taste or smell (less common than earlier variants)
Some people experience only mild symptoms, while others may develop more significant illness, particularly older adults or those with underlying health conditions.
Influenza A and B (The Flu)
Influenza typically causes symptoms that appear suddenly and can feel more severe than a common cold.
Common flu symptoms include:
- High fever
- Significant body aches
- Extreme fatigue
- Chills
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
Influenza A often causes larger seasonal outbreaks, while influenza B can also cause serious illness,particularly in children.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can affect both children and adults. While many cases are mild, RSV can sometimes lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in infants and older adults.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent cough
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Wheezing
- Reduced appetite
- Difficulty breathing in severe cases
Rhinovirus and the Common Cold
Rhinovirus is one of the most common causes of the common cold.
Typical symptoms include:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Mild sore throat
- Mild cough
- Mild fatigue
Unlike influenza, common colds usually develop gradually and are less likely to cause high fever or severe body aches.
However, it is not always possible to distinguish viruses based on symptoms alone. COVID-19 and influenza testing may still be recommended in some situations.
When to Book a Telehealth Appointment
Telehealth is a convenient option when you are feeling unwell and prefer to avoid travelling or sitting in awaiting room.
You should consider speaking with a telehealth GP if you:
- Have worsening cold or flu symptoms
- Need medical advice about COVID-19 or influenza
- Require prescriptions or repeat medications
- Need a medical certificate for work or study
- Have persistent fever, cough, or breathing symptoms
- Are caring for an unwell child
- Are unsure whether symptoms require further assessment
An online GP can assess your symptoms and advise whether home care, testing, medications, or in-person assessment may be appropriate.
Tips to Support Your Immune System This Winter
While no lifestyle measure can completely prevent illness, maintaining healthy habits may help support immune function during winter.
Prioritise Rest and Sleep
Adequate sleep helps support immune system regulation and recovery. Adults generally benefit from around 7–9hours of sleep per night.
Eat Balanced, Nutritious Meals
A diet rich in vegetables,fruits, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats helps provide important nutrients that support overall health.
Maintain Healthy Vitamin D Levels
Sunlight exposure plays an important role in Vitamin D production. Many Australians may benefit from approximately 5–30 minutes of sun exposure on most days or at least twice weekly, depending on skin type, location, and season. If you are concerned about Vitamin D deficiency, a GP can discuss whether testing may be appropriate.
Keep Physically Active
Regular exercise may help support immune function, circulation, sleep quality, and mental wellbeing during winter months.
Stay Hydrated
Even in cooler weather,maintaining fluid intake remains important when recovering from illness.
Convenient Telehealth Care for Winter Illnesses
Cold and flu symptoms can leave you feeling exhausted, uncomfortable, and unsure about the next steps.Telehealth offers a fast and practical way to access medical advice from home when you are unwell.
With Private Medical, Australians and those visiting from overseas, can book online GP appointments for winter illnesses, cold and flu symptoms, prescriptions,referrals, and medical certificates — all from the comfort of home or any Australia-wide location.
To book in, call 135 001 or booking online via the link here.
