Preparing for flu season? Here are 5 things to tick off your list.

Thanks to our brand partner, Ramsay Pharmacy

Sitting at my son's kinder concert recently, it was hard to miss the sniffles and chesty coughs filling the room (along with the sweet cacophony of kids singing 'Skidamarink'). And it's not just my proximity to four-year-olds — it feels like everyone is sick right now!

Much like your punctual mate from uni, this year the sick season has come to the party early and cases of the dreaded flu are already on the rise. And just to be clear, I'm not talking about when your colleague says he was "out with the flu" when he just had the sniffles. I mean the real-deal version: full-body aches, fatigue and that headache that earns its title.

The last thing anyone needs is to be knocked out for days — or worse, weeks — especially when work is ramping up and flights are booked for that mid-winter getaway.

While flu season is as inevitable as that yearly tax bill, we can at least be prepared.

Pharmacist Lillian Kwan from Ramsay Pharmacy has a few simple ways to help you get ready for flu season.

1. Consider getting the flu vaccine

One of the best ways to reduce your risk of getting the flu is by getting vaccinated. So, I asked Kwan to explain how it works.

"Basically, the flu vaccine introduces a small, inactive part of the virus to your body," she explained. "That way, if you're exposed later, your immune system already knows how to respond."

She also addressed a common myth: "Some people worry that the vaccine will give them the flu — that's not true. It helps prepare your body to recognise and respond to the virus."

2. Get sick-season ready

There are several simple ways to support your wellbeing during flu season. Kwan suggested:

• Prioritise sleep: Our immune systems function best when well-rested.

• Manage stress: "When your body is under stress, it can be more vulnerable to viruses."

• Look after yourself: Rest, hydration and balance go a long way.

• Be cautious about sharing: Avoid sharing cups, plates and water bottles.

• Practice good hygiene: Handwashing and regular cleaning help prevent the spread of illness.

These tips might seem obvious, but they're easy to overlook when things get busy. Taking steps now can help you avoid disruptions later.

3. Know your symptoms

Feeling rundown and unsure what's going on? Understanding the difference between a cold, the flu and allergies can help you know how to respond.

Kwan offered this basic guide: "The flu often comes with a fever while colds usually don't. You're also more likely to experience body aches and intense fatigue with the flu."

If you're sneezing and congested but otherwise okay, allergies could be to blame.

While self-assessment can help, speaking with a health professional — such as a pharmacist — can provide extra clarity on next steps including whether a referral to a doctor might be needed.

4. Seek advice on managing symptoms

Ramsay Pharmacy pharmacists are available to discuss your symptoms and provide advice on over-the-counter options where appropriate. If something more serious is suspected, they can also suggest when it's best to speak with a GP.

"Sometimes it's hard to know what's going on," said Kwan. "We can help you understand what might help manage your symptoms and when to seek further medical care."

It's also worth noting that antibiotics don't treat viral infections like the flu or a cold. "Antibiotics are for bacterial infections," explained Kwan. "So they won't speed up recovery from the flu."

5. Protect your household

While it's not always possible to avoid getting sick, encouraging healthy habits at home can help reduce the spread of illness.

Support everyone's immune health by prioritising good sleep, staying well hydrated and keeping your environment clean. If someone is unwell, practise physical distancing and encourage regular handwashing.

You may also want to consider whether flu vaccinations are appropriate for members of your household.

As Kwan put it, "Taking preventive steps now can make a difference later — whether that means fewer missed school days, less time off work or just feeling better sooner."

Check your eligibility and book your flu vaccination appointment at Ramsay Pharmacy online.

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any vaccination, always seek health and medical advice from a qualified pharmacist or your healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Getty.

Book your flu vaccination online at ramsaypharmacy.com.au A healthier flu season starts with you... and a little help from Ramsay Pharmacy.