Cold, flu, or something else?
These infections can overlap a lot in how they feel, which makes it hard to know what you’re dealing with. Here’s a rough guide to the differences.
Common cold
- Gradual onset
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Mild sore throat
- Little or no fever
- Mild fatigue
- Usually 7–10 days
Influenza (flu)
- Sudden onset
- High fever (38–40°C)
- Severe aches and pains
- Headache
- Intense fatigue
- Dry cough
- Can last 1–2 weeks
Chest infection
- Persistent cough
- Coloured phlegm
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue
- Needs GP assessment
COVID-19 can also mimic flu symptoms, so if you’re unsure, a rapid antigen test (RAT) at home is a good starting point. RATs are widely available at pharmacies.
Managing a cold or mild flu at home
Most healthy adults can manage a standard cold or mild flu at home. Here’s what actually helps:
💧 Rest and fluids
Your body does the work — give it the energy it needs. Stay home, sleep more than usual, and drink plenty of water. Broth-based soups and warm drinks genuinely help.
💊 Pain and fever relief
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease aches, headaches, and reduce fever. Always follow the label, and don’t give aspirin to children under 16.
🌡️ Saltwater gargle
A simple saltwater gargle can ease sore throat pain. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds, a few times a day.
🛑 Stay home
Respiratory viruses spread easily. Stay away from work, school, and crowded places until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours and symptoms are clearly improving.
What about antibiotics?
Antibiotics won’t help a viral infection
The vast majority of colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics only work against bacteria — they do nothing for a viral illness and taking them unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance, which is a serious public health issue in Australia.
Your GP will only prescribe antibiotics if there’s a clear sign of a bacterial infection — like a confirmed bacterial throat infection (strep), sinusitis that isn’t improving, or a chest infection that’s bacterial in origin. This is the right call, not a shortcut.
When should you see a GP?
- Symptoms that start improving then suddenly get worse — this can signal a secondary bacterial infection like pneumonia or sinusitis
- A fever that isn’t coming down with paracetamol, or a fever that lasts more than 3–4 days
- You’re in a high-risk group: over 65, pregnant, have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system
- A child under 3 months with any fever, or any child who is very lethargic, not drinking, or struggling to breathe
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improving
- You need a medical certificate for work or school
- You want a flu antiviral — these must be started within 48 hours of symptoms to be effective
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that’s getting worse
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion, severe headache, or stiff neck
- Blue lips or fingertips
- Severe dehydration — unable to keep any fluids down
What can a GP do for a respiratory infection?
Coming in isn’t always about getting a prescription. Your GP can:
- Examine your throat, ears, chest, and sinuses to identify what’s actually going on
- Order a throat swab, blood test, or chest X-ray if needed
- Prescribe antivirals like Tamiflu for influenza — but only if started within 48 hours
- Prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected
- Manage complications like sinusitis, ear infections, or pneumonia
- Provide a medical certificate for work or school
- Advise on whether your child needs further assessment
Flu vaccination — the best prevention
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to reduce your risk of getting influenza and passing it on to people around you. It’s recommended every year because the strains that circulate change each season.
In 2026, all Queensland residents are eligible for a free flu vaccine. We stock both the standard vaccine and FluMist nasal spray, which is a great option for young children who don’t like needles.
Learn more about flu vaccines at Southport Metro →
Related services at our clinic
Not sure if you need to come in?
Our GPs are here 7 days a week at Australia Fair Metro, Southport. No referral needed — walk-ins welcome.