Prompt advice for coughs, colds, flu and chest infections from telehealth doctors
Feeling unwell with a cough, sore throat, fever or blocked nose? Speak to our online doctors by phone or video for advice, treatment if clinically appropriate, and a medical certificate if you need time off.
Flat rate Telehealth consultation: $55 weekdays / $75 weekends
Get Cold and Flu Advice Online Today
Telehealth Consultations and Treatment from the Comfort of Home
Colds, Flu and Bronchitis: What's the Difference?
- Common cold: a mild viral infection of the nose and throat that usually settles within about a week to 10 days.
- Influenza (flu): a viral infection that often starts suddenly, with fever, aches and tiredness. It can make you much sicker than a cold and can be serious for some people.
- Acute bronchitis: inflammation of the airways, usually after a cold or flu, causing a cough that can last a few weeks. Most cases are caused by viruses.
Common Symptoms
- Cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose
- Fever or chills
- Muscle aches and tiredness
- Headache
- Chest discomfort when coughing
How Our Doctors Can Help
During a secure telehealth consultation, our GPs can:
- Assess your symptoms and advise on the best way to recover at home
- Recommend over-the-counter options to ease your symptoms
- Prescribe treatment if clinically appropriate. Colds and most bronchitis are caused by viruses, so antibiotics usually won't help.
- Discuss whether antiviral treatment for flu may suit you, for example if you're at higher risk, as it works best when started early
- Provide a medical certificate for work, study or carer's leave
- Arrange tests or refer you for in-person care if needed
When to Get Urgent Help
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department if you have difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion or severe drowsiness, or signs of dehydration such as not passing urine. See a doctor promptly if your symptoms keep getting worse or haven't improved after a week or two.
Tips for a Faster Recovery
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Stay home to avoid spreading the infection
- Wash your hands often and cover coughs and sneezes
- Consider your yearly flu vaccination
Get Help Today
Don't let a cold or flu keep you stuck in a waiting room. Connect with an online doctor, often within 15 minutes, from anywhere in Australia.
Satisfied patients
Experience for yourself why thousands of Australians trust Teldoc as their telehealth online doctor service.
Colds and flu are caused by viruses, so antibiotics won’t help. See antibiotic prescription online for which infections may need them.
Hay fever or a cold? Read our guide: Hay Fever Season in Australia: Symptoms, Relief and When to See a Doctor.
Teldoc Cold and Flu FAQs
Can I see a doctor online for a cold or flu?
Yes. Our GPs can assess your symptoms by video or phone, advise on treatment and let you know if you need to be seen in person.
Will I get antibiotics for my cold or bronchitis?
Colds and most cases of bronchitis are caused by viruses, which antibiotics don’t treat. Your doctor will only prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected and they’re clinically appropriate.
Can I get a medical certificate for a cold or flu?
Yes. If clinically appropriate, your doctor can email you a medical certificate after your consultation.
Is it COVID-19 or flu?
The symptoms can be very similar. Your doctor can advise on testing. See our COVID-19 page for more on assessment and treatment.
How much does an online consultation cost?
Consultations are $55 on weekdays and $75 on weekends and public holidays. There is no Medicare rebate for general consultations. See our Pricing page for full details.
When should I go to hospital instead?
If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, blue lips or confusion, call 000 straight away.
Medically reviewed by Dr Vafa Derakshan (MBBS, FRACGP), September 2026