Aussie flu: here's what you need to know

What is Aussie flu?

Aussie flu, or H3N2, is one of the strains of influenza circulating this winter and was responsible for the worst flu season in Australia in more than a decade. Aussie flu is not new, but it is a strain that tends to be more difficult to control compared to other strains. The UK is struck with bouts of flu every winter, but hospital admissions and GP visits for influenza have peaked as we've started 2018. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of Aussie flu are similar to most flu symptoms but tend to be more severe. Everyone will experience the flu differently but in general, you should watch out for symptoms such as:

• a sudden fever of 38C or above
• aches and pains
• general fatigue
• having a dry cough
• a sore throat
• a headache
• difficulty sleeping
• loss of appetite
• diarrhoea
• stomach cramps
• nausea
  

What to do

The chances are you won’t be up and moving if you’ve been struck by a bout of Aussie flu, much less a trip to the gym. Instead, aim for plenty of rest and sleep, try to keep as warm as possible and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature. Also, make sure to replenish your system with plenty of water to avoid dehydration as this can be a detrimental side effect of Aussie flu.

What to expect

Symptoms should clear up by themselves in around a week, but it’s important to take time off to rest, no matter how much of a workaholic you may be. 

Should I be worried? 

If you’ve been struck by Aussie flu and been busy googling for information while being bombarded by news of the death count – there's no need to worry. It’s important to note that the deaths caused by Aussie flu are not a direct result of the flu itself but from severe complications. Any strain of flu has the potential to be dangerous and Aussie flu is not special. 

That being said, certain individuals should take more precautions: those over the age of 65, young children, pregnant women and people with health conditions such as asthma and heart disease are at highest risk due to their weakened immune systems. They may suffer from complications such as pneumonia and bronchitis. 

What can I do? 

To protect yourself from Aussie flu, wash your hands regularly and clean surfaces to get rid of germs. Keep your immune system strong by eating wholesome, nutritious meals that are rich in vitamins A, B, and C. If you’ve been afflicted, don’t forget that Aussie flu is highly contagious, so you should also try to stop it from spreading–make sure you cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. 

The flu vaccination is also offered free of charge to people who are at risk. You are currently eligible for a free flu vaccine if you are: 

• Aged 65 and over
• Pregnant 
• Have certain medical conditions 
• Living in a residential care home 
• A carer for someone at risk of falling ill 
• A child between 2 and 8 years old 
• A child over 6 months old with certain medical conditions 

---

Too busy to make an appointment for a flu vaccine? Get the doctor to come to you instead! 

Qured is an on-demand healthcare service, which delivers a doctor to your door with 2 hours. They can also provide flu vaccinations at a time and location to suit you, whether it be your home or workplace. With the code QURED40, you can get £40 off your first appointment. 

For more information and to book your appointment, visit Qured.com or download the Qured app today.