Worried about catching the flu this season? This health expert has you covered
In the midst of winter, it feels like everyone is getting sick right now, with infections ranging from the common cold to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to the flu. While all three are caused by viruses, flu and RSV symptoms are typically longer lasting and more severe than a cold, with some cases developing into serious complications and even death.
While COVID was the leading cause of respiratory infection-related deaths from 2023 to 2025, the number of deaths attributed to influenza, or the flu, are on the rise this year, creeping up towards 2019 figures.
Although the flu is no fun for anyone, some people in the community are more vulnerable than others. Susceptible groups include children under five years, adults over the age of 65 years and those with underlying health issues, especially respiratory conditions.
Clinical director of public health at Sydney Local Health District Dr Leena Gupta says there are some simple ways to minimise your chances. And if you do succumb, she also has some advice for what will – and won't – get you back on your feet.
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Get vaccinated
It's not too late to be vaccinated. While some businesses offer free vaccinations to staff early in the season, you can still be vaccinated for the flu at participating pharmacies or your GP. Dr Gupta says it is still by far the best option for staying well this season.
'One of the important things we tell people is to get vaccinated,' she says. 'It is about protecting yourself and preventing transmission to people who are more vulnerable.'
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The Age
a day ago
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Feel like everyone is getting sick? Here's the medical expert's guide to avoiding the flu
It can start with feeling tired. Maybe you're just run down. Then the sore throat, runny nose or headache kicks in, sometimes accompanied by fever, muscle aches and coughing. Before you know it, you can barely lift your head. In the midst of winter, it feels like everyone is getting sick right now, with infections ranging from the common cold to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to the flu. While all three are caused by viruses, flu and RSV symptoms are typically longer lasting and more severe than a cold, with some cases developing into serious complications and even death. While COVID was the leading cause of respiratory infection-related deaths from 2023 to 2025, the number of deaths attributed to influenza, or the flu, are on the rise this year, creeping up towards 2019 figures. Although the flu is no fun for anyone, some people in the community are more vulnerable than others. Susceptible groups include children under five years, adults over the age of 65 years and those with underlying health issues, especially respiratory conditions. Clinical director of public health at Sydney Local Health District Dr Leena Gupta says there are some simple ways to minimise your chances. And if you do succumb, she also has some advice for what will – and won't – get you back on your feet. Loading Get vaccinated It's not too late to be vaccinated. While some businesses offer free vaccinations to staff early in the season, you can still be vaccinated for the flu at participating pharmacies or your GP. Dr Gupta says it is still by far the best option for staying well this season. 'One of the important things we tell people is to get vaccinated,' she says. 'It is about protecting yourself and preventing transmission to people who are more vulnerable.'
Sydney Morning Herald
a day ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
Feel like everyone is getting sick? Here's the medical expert's guide to avoiding the flu
It can start with feeling tired. Maybe you're just run down. Then the sore throat, runny nose or headache kicks in, sometimes accompanied by fever, muscle aches and coughing. Before you know it, you can barely lift your head. In the midst of winter, it feels like everyone is getting sick right now, with infections ranging from the common cold to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to the flu. While all three are caused by viruses, flu and RSV symptoms are typically longer lasting and more severe than a cold, with some cases developing into serious complications and even death. While COVID was the leading cause of respiratory infection-related deaths from 2023 to 2025, the number of deaths attributed to influenza, or the flu, are on the rise this year, creeping up towards 2019 figures. Although the flu is no fun for anyone, some people in the community are more vulnerable than others. Susceptible groups include children under five years, adults over the age of 65 years and those with underlying health issues, especially respiratory conditions. Clinical director of public health at Sydney Local Health District Dr Leena Gupta says there are some simple ways to minimise your chances. And if you do succumb, she also has some advice for what will – and won't – get you back on your feet. Loading Get vaccinated It's not too late to be vaccinated. While some businesses offer free vaccinations to staff early in the season, you can still be vaccinated for the flu at participating pharmacies or your GP. Dr Gupta says it is still by far the best option for staying well this season. 'One of the important things we tell people is to get vaccinated,' she says. 'It is about protecting yourself and preventing transmission to people who are more vulnerable.'
The Age
2 days ago
- The Age
Worried about catching the flu this season? This health expert has you covered
It can start with feeling tired. Maybe you're just run down. Then the sore throat, runny nose or headache kicks in, sometimes accompanied by fever, muscle aches and coughing. Before you know it, you can barely lift your head. In the midst of winter, it feels like everyone is getting sick right now, with infections ranging from the common cold to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to the flu. While all three are caused by viruses, flu and RSV symptoms are typically longer lasting and more severe than a cold, with some cases developing into serious complications and even death. While COVID was the leading cause of respiratory infection-related deaths from 2023 to 2025, the number of deaths attributed to influenza, or the flu, are on the rise this year, creeping up towards 2019 figures. Although the flu is no fun for anyone, some people in the community are more vulnerable than others. Susceptible groups include children under five years, adults over the age of 65 years and those with underlying health issues, especially respiratory conditions. Clinical director of public health at Sydney Local Health District Dr Leena Gupta says there are some simple ways to minimise your chances. And if you do succumb, she also has some advice for what will – and won't – get you back on your feet. Loading Get vaccinated It's not too late to be vaccinated. While some businesses offer free vaccinations to staff early in the season, you can still be vaccinated for the flu at participating pharmacies or your GP. Dr Gupta says it is still by far the best option for staying well this season. 'One of the important things we tell people is to get vaccinated,' she says. 'It is about protecting yourself and preventing transmission to people who are more vulnerable.'
