In 2025, Australia is experiencing one of the toughest flu seasons in recent years, with more than 46,000 cases already recorded by the end of March and hospitals reporting a sharp rise in flu-related admissions. This is why it’s important to recognise and understand how to fight the flu to keep all workplace environments healthy.
While you can catch the flu at any time, it’s more likely to happen in the colder months of the year. Seasonal influenza is an illness caused by influenza viruses spread through coughs, sneezes, or contaminated surfaces.
The flu spreads easily through families, friends, workplaces, childcare centres, and schools. You should be mindful of colleagues and customers around you by:
- Staying away from busy places until 1 week after the start of symptoms
- Washing your hands consistently with high grade sanitiser and soap
- Covering your coughs and sneezes
- Having a box of tissues on hand
Early and recognisable signs of the flu include coughing, a sore throat, sinusitis or fever. Mild flu symptoms often get better on their own with rest and fluids, but serious cases may require hospital care.
However, preventative actions are always better than reactive. So what are the best ways to fight the flu this infection season?
- Get a flu shot
- Use high grade soaps when washing hands
- Keep tissues close and accessible
- Avoid sharing cups, plates and cutlery
- Keep surrounding surfaces clean and disinfected
Taking simple preventative measures makes a big difference. By encouraging vaccination, practicing good hygiene, and keeping environments clean, we can all play a role in reducing the impact of flu this season and supporting healthier workplaces.
https://www.immunisationcoalition.org.au/news-data/influenza-statistics/
