How do you survive cold and flu season?

Summary: Cold and flu season in Australia can be tough, but with the right approach, you can stay healthy and resilient. Prioritising rest, hydration, and proper nutrition, along with practicing good hygiene, helps manage symptoms and speed up recovery. Boosting your immune system through diet, exercise, and stress management is key to prevention. If you do fall ill, early rest and telehealth support can aid recovery and reduce complications. With a little preparation, you can thrive all season long.

Cold and flu season can feel like an endless fight against germs, especially when it feels like everyone around you is coughing and sneezing. In Australia, seasonal flu results in an estimated 3,500 deaths and 300,000 general practitioner consultations. But don’t worry—you don’t have to spend the entire season under the blankets! With a few smart strategies and a bit of preparation, you can prevent the illness and stay feeling healthy all season long. Let’s explore how you can survive and thrive in this cold season! 

Getting through the cold and flu: 6 ways

Handling a cold or flu can be draining, but employing the right strategies can help accelerate healing and alleviate symptoms. Here are some efficient methods for managing it: 

• Prioritise rest: Your body requires energy to combat the virus, so ensure you get ample sleep. Steer clear of intense activities and focus on resting to aid your immune system's recovery. 
• Maintain hydration: Consuming water, herbal teas, and broths helps prevent dehydration and soothes a sore throat. Avoid caffeinated or sugary beverages, as they may exacerbate dehydration. 
• Soothe your throat: Rinsing with warm salt water can diminish irritation and swelling. Honey, lozenges, and warm teas with lemon may also alleviate discomfort. 
• Relieve congestion: Inhaling steam with essential oils or using saline nasal sprays can assist in clearing blocked sinuses. Keeping a humidifier in your room might also offer relief. 
• Consume nourishing foods: Warm soups, fruits, and vegetables provide vital nutrients that bolster your immune system. Avoid processed or sugary items that can hinder recovery. 
• Prevent germ transmission: Wash your hands often, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wear a mask if necessary. Remain at home until your fever has been absent for at least 24 hours. 

Also read: Flu Stages: A Day-by-Day Guide and Recovery

Taking good care of yourself can accelerate recovery and reduce the risk of complications. If symptoms extend beyond 10 days or worsen, seek medical assistance. It’s also important to remember that antibiotics don’t treat viral infections like colds and the flu – they should only be used if prescribed for a bacterial infection. 

How to boost your immune system in cold and flu season?

Strengthening your immune system during cold and flu season can help reduce the chances of getting sick. Here are a few effective ways to improve your immunity: 

• Eat a healthy diet: Prioritise fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Consume foods rich in vitamin C (such as citrus fruits), vitamin D (fortified foods or sunlight), and zinc (found in nuts and seeds) to support immune function. During winter months or periods of low sunlight, your doctor may recommend a vitamin D supplement to maintain adequate levels.  
• Stay active: Regular exercise can boost immune function and improve blood flow, helping immune cells move more efficiently. 
• Get enough sleep: Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. Sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. 
• Stay hydrated:  Drinking sufficient water ensures your immune system operates effectively and promotes overall health.  
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can impair the immune system. Engage in stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or connecting with nature. 

By following these recommendations, you can enhance your immune system and better protect yourself against illnesses during the cold and flu season.  

To boost your immune system during cold and flu season, consume a nutrient-rich diet, stay hydrated, and get enough rest. Regular exercise and stress management also support immune health. These habits can strengthen your defences and reduce the likelihood of illness.  

Also read: Prolonged flu symptoms: What to do when flu won't go away?  

If you get sick

If you notice cold or flu symptoms, taking appropriate actions can help manage your condition and avert complications: 

Rest and recuperate:

Allow your body time to heal by getting sufficient rest and avoiding heavy activities. Sleep enhances your immune system's ability to combat infections. 

Prevent illness spread:

Wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing, and limit close contact with others. Remain at home until your fever has subsided for a minimum of 24 hours. 

Seek help:

If your symptoms get worse, last more than 10 days, or if you experience a high fever or difficulty breathing, seek medical assistance. Telehealth  provides a way to consult a doctor from home, minimising the risk of spreading illness. You can receive online prescriptions in Australia, medical guidance, and even referrals for further care without needing to visit a clinic. This is particularly beneficial for high-risk individuals, such as older adults and those with ongoing health issues. If you’re at risk of complications, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, which work best when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. 

Taking proactive measures and utilising telehealth when required can assist in a quicker recovery and help avoid severe complications. 

Surviving cold and flu season doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a little foresight, some healthy habits, and a bit of practicality, you can keep germs away and feel your best. So, get set, stay smart, and let’s send those seasonal bugs on their way!