First Aid

Key messages

Respiratory infections such as influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are increasing in Victoria. This year, this is occurring later than in previous seasons.
Vaccines are available to protect against common respiratory infections.
Seasonal influenza vaccination is still widely available and with cases now increasing, it is not too late to get vaccinated.
Some people, including young children, older adults and those with a weakened immune system, are at increased risk of severe disease.
Early antiviral treatments can help to reduce severe disease from flu and COVID-19 for some high-risk individuals.

Simple hygiene and preventive measures like covering coughs and sneezes, regular hand washing and staying home when sick can help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

In Victoria, cases of influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are increasing while cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remain elevated after peaking in July. Health service visits for respiratory illnesses have also been increasing. Many respiratory infections such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV occur more commonly in winter and early spring months. This year, these common respiratory infections are showing a later-than-usual increase in activity compared to previous seasons.

Symptoms and transmission

Many respiratory infections such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV cause similar illnesses with symptoms and signs of fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, body aches or pains and tiredness.

Respiratory infections can spread easily from person to person through droplets produced through coughing and sneezing or by coming in close contact with someone with the infection.

Vaccination, good hand hygiene and staying home when you're sick are some of the best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.

More information

Clinical information

Wendy Sherwood

First Aid Officer