Why ‘Summer Flu’ Is Not Actually A Flu?
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Overview
The hot summer day outside reaches 30°C while you rest on the couch with throat pain and head pain and body discomfort. Your first thought when you get sick during summer becomes "How did I end up with the flu?" Many Australians experience what they call the “summer flu.” The influenza virus does not cause this condition which people refer to as summer flu. The summer flu symptoms resemble influenza but they stem from different viral agents and environmental factors that thrive during hot months.What is ‘Summer Flu’
People use the term "summer flu" to describe their flu-like symptoms which appear unexpectedly during summer months. The symptoms include:- A sore, scratchy throat
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Headaches and body aches
- General fatigue and feeling rundown
- A occasional cough or sneezing
Causes of ‘Summer Flu’
The symptoms you experience do not stem from influenza because your body has contracted a different viral infection. The symptoms you experience stem from different viral infections which operate during summer months and from non-infectious conditions.- Common Cold Viruses: The viruses which cause winter colds also spread throughout the entire year. The viruses responsible for cold and flu symptoms affect people throughout every season of the year.
- Enteroviruses: The viruses reach their highest numbers during summer months and autumn season. The viruses trigger various health issues which start as basic cold symptoms before progressing into severe fever and body pain that resembles influenza.
- Allergies (Hay Fever): The summer season brings peak pollen levels from grasses and other plants. When people breathe in pollen allergens their bodies trigger an allergic reaction which produces nasal discharge and eye irritation and headaches and extreme tiredness.
- Environmental Factors: The operation of air conditioning systems during the summer heat leads to nasal passage drying which makes people more vulnerable to viral infections. The summer heat causes dehydration which produces headaches and fatigue that worsen your overall condition.
Summer Flu Symptoms Differ from Actual Flu Symptoms in Several Ways
The main distinction between summer flu and actual flu emerges from the specific viral agent and the severity of symptoms. The following table shows a brief comparison between these two conditions.| Feature | Summer Flu (Usually a Bad Cold/Other Virus) | Real Influenza |
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden and severe |
| Fever | Less common, usually mild | Common, often high (38°C+) |
| Body Aches | Mild to moderate | Often severe, "hit by a truck" feeling |
| Fatigue | Tiring, but often manageable | Profound exhaustion, can last weeks |
| Respiratory Symptoms | Runny nose, sore throat, sneezing | Dry cough, sore throat are common |
Home Treatment
Most summer viruses are viral so antibiotics will not provide any benefit. Your body needs rest to fight off the infection so you should follow its signals to take a break.- Rest Up: Your body needs energy to fight off the infection. Listen to it and slow down.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas and broth throughout the day. The hot weather requires you to drink more fluids.
- Soothe Your Throat: Gargle with warm salt water or sip on honey and lemon in warm water.
- Ease Discomfort: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen help patients relieve their headaches and body pain.
Preventing Summer Flu
- Wash your hands often : Good old soap and water still works best. It helps stop viruses spreading, especially after being out in public or using public transport.
- Stay hydrated and well-rested : Hot weather can run you down, making infections more likely. Plenty of water and good sleep keep your immune system strong.
- Keep your distance if someone’s unwell : Even “summer bugs” spread the same way as winter flu through droplets. Avoid close contact if someone has a cough, fever, or runny nose.
- Practise good hygiene at the beach and pool : Shared areas like change rooms can carry germs. Bring your own towel and avoid touching your face until you’ve washed your hands.
- Consider a flu vaccine if you’re at higher risk : Flu season peaks in winter but cases can still pop up anytime. Some Aussies benefit from year-round protection so check with your GP.
When to See a Doctor
- If symptoms are severe or not improving : High fever, chest pain, trouble breathing, or symptoms lasting more than a few days should be checked by a GP.
- If you have a chronic condition : Asthma, diabetes, pregnancy or immune issues can make infections riskier. It’s better to speak to a doctor early.
- If you’re unsure whether it’s flu, COVID-19, or allergies : Symptoms can overlap, so getting proper medical advice can help you recover faster and avoid complications.
How Hola Health Can Help
Feeling rundown in the middle of summer can be confusing — especially when symptoms feel like the flu. Hola Health makes it simple to get fast, reliable medical advice without leaving your home.
Here’s how our online doctors can support you:
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Instant telehealth consultations: Consult with an Australian-registered GP online to understand whether your symptoms are caused by a virus, allergies, dehydration, or something more serious.
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Symptom assessment & guidance: Upload your symptoms, discuss your concerns, and get clear advice on whether you need rest, medication, or further testing.
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Online prescriptions when appropriate: If your GP determines that medication (such as antihistamines, antiviral treatment, or pain relief) is needed, they can issue an eScript instantly.
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Help distinguishing flu, allergies, or COVID-19: These conditions often overlap. Your Hola Health GP can help identify the most likely cause and advise whether testing is needed.
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Medical certificates: If your symptoms affect your ability to work or study, our doctors can provide a same-day online medical certificate.
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Referrals to specialists: If your symptoms persist or require further evaluation, Hola Health can arrange a referral to an ENT specialist, allergist, or paediatrician.
With quick access, flexible appointment times, and trusted Australian doctors, Hola Health helps you recover sooner — and with confidence — even when summer bugs strike unexpectedly.
FAQ
Can you get real flu in summer in Australia?
Yes, you can. While flu peaks in winter, cases still appear year-round especially with travel, crowded events, and changing weather.How long does summer flu last?
Most people start feeling better in 3–7 days, but fatigue and cough can hang around a bit longer.Is summer flu contagious?
Absolutely. It spreads the same way as winter flu, through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. You’re most contagious in the first few days.Can allergies cause flu-like symptoms?
Yes. Hay fever can cause sneezing, blocked nose, watery eyes, and tiredness. But allergies usually don’t cause fever, which helps tell them apart from flu or infection.When should I see a doctor for flu symptoms in summer?
See a GP if your symptoms are severe, last more than a few days, you have trouble breathing, or you’re in a higher-risk group (pregnant, elderly, chronic illness).See a GP online within just 15 minutes.
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Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not indicate that Hola Health provides all treatments or preventive measures mentioned. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000. Any medical topics discussed are intended to educate, not to imply availability through Hola Health.