May be suitable
- New cold, cough, sore throat or nasal symptoms
- Mild flu-like symptoms without breathing difficulty
- Questions about symptom relief, testing or time away from work or study
Australian doctor-led telehealth
Online consultation for cold, cough and flu-like symptoms
Cough, sore throat, congestion and flu-like symptoms are often self-limiting, but an assessment can help identify warning signs and appropriate next steps.
Suitability
When an online consultation may help
Telehealth may not be enough
- Breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion or collapse
- Severe chest pain, coughing blood or rapid deterioration
- A very unwell infant, severe dehydration or significant immune suppression
Clinical assessment
What may happen during the consultation
The doctor will review your symptoms, timing, medical history, medicines and relevant risk factors. Advice, treatment, testing, imaging or in-person assessment may be recommended according to clinical need.
Explain the concernShare the symptoms, timing, relevant history and any clear photos when useful.
Doctor assessmentYour doctor considers what can be assessed safely by phone or video.
Agree on next stepsReceive advice and safety-netting. Any medicine, document, test or referral is subject to assessment.
Urgent care
Do not wait for an online appointment in an emergency
Call Triple Zero (000) for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, signs of stroke, collapse, severe bleeding, a severe allergic reaction, or any condition that appears life-threatening. For urgent but non-life-threatening advice, call 1800MEDICARE on 1800 633 422.
Clinical review
Reviewed by Dr Dong Zhao
M.D. (USyd), B.A. (UBC) · Australian-registered Medical Doctor · AHPRA general registration
Content reviewed 15 August 2026. Meet Dr Dong Zhao.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Can cold and flu symptoms be assessed by telehealth?
Many mild respiratory symptoms can be assessed remotely, although testing or an in-person examination may be recommended.
Will I receive antibiotics?
Antibiotics do not treat viruses and are only prescribed when the doctor finds a clinical reason.
Trusted information
Australian health references
Need a medical doctor consultation?
Choose Dr Lily Vu or Dr Dong Zhao and continue to our secure external booking page. Care and any clinical document, medicine, test or referral remain subject to assessment.
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