Supporting patients through the respiratory illness season: A GP’s perspective

By Dr Asma’a Gundru, General Practitioner  

A patient recently attended a routine appointment for a medication review and mentioned, almost in passing, that several people at work had been sick with coughs and colds. 

“Winter hasn’t even started yet,” she said. “Should I be doing anything to avoid getting really sick this year?” 

It’s a common question in general practice. As the colder months approach, respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other viral infections begin to circulate more widely in the community. Waiting rooms fill with patients experiencing coughs, sore throats and fevers, and many families start to worry about how best to protect themselves and those around them. 

For general practice teams, winter is a busy period, but it also presents an important opportunity to focus on prevention and early support. 

Winter flu season preparation matters 

Respiratory infections tend to increase during winter for several reasons. People spend more time indoors in close contact with others and seasonal patterns of influenza and other viruses contribute to higher transmission rates. 

While many infections are mild and self-limiting, some patient population groups are at higher risk of complications, including: 

• older adults 

• babies and young children 

• pregnant women 

• people with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart disease 

• immunocompromised individuals. 
   

For these patients, even common respiratory infections can lead to significant illness and hospitalisation. 

General practice therefore plays a critical role in helping patients prepare before winter pressures increase. 

Ask the question, have the conversation about vaccination —a GP perspective 

In everyday consultations, winter cold and flu season preparation often starts with simple conversations. A routine prescription review or chronic disease check can provide an opportunity to discuss vaccination, infection prevention and what to do if symptoms develop. 

GPs are also uniquely placed to identify patients who may be particularly vulnerable during the winter months. This includes those with chronic medical conditions, limited social support or barriers to accessing care. 

By addressing these risks early, practices can help reduce avoidable complications and provide patients with the knowledge they need to manage common respiratory illnesses safely. 

Practical steps GPs can take to support patient health through the Winter cold and flu season 

Encourage seasonal vaccination 

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce serious illness from respiratory infections. GPs can use routine appointments to remind eligible patients about influenza vaccination and discuss COVID-19 booster recommendations where appropriate. 

For higher risk groups, vaccination discussions early in the season can be particularly valuable. 

Review chronic respiratory conditions 

Winter often brings increased exacerbations of asthma and COPD. Reviewing asthma action plans, inhaler technique and medication adherence ahead of the season can help prevent avoidable flare-ups. 

For patients with chronic respiratory conditions, ensuring they understand their management plan can significantly improve outcomes. 

Promote simple prevention strategies 

Small behavioural changes can help reduce transmission of respiratory viruses. GPs can encourage patients to: 

• Stay home when unwell 

• Practice regular hand hygiene 

• Reminder to use masks  

• Cover coughs and sneezes 

• Maintain good ventilation in indoor spaces 

While these measures are simple, they remain effective in limiting the spread of respiratory illness. 

Identify vulnerable patients early 

Some patients may benefit from additional follow up or support during winter, particularly those who are socially isolated or managing multiple chronic conditions. 

Practices may consider proactive outreach to high-risk patients, particularly those who may delay seeking care until illness becomes more severe. 

Helpful resources for patients and general practices  

Several organisations provide reliable information to support patients and practices during the winter respiratory illness season. 

• Healthdirect Australia 

  • Healthdirect offers accessible information on common respiratory infections, including when to seek medical care and how to manage symptoms at home. 

• National Asthma Council Australia 

  • The National Asthma Council provides asthma action plan templates, patient education resources and guidance on managing asthma during respiratory illness season. 

• Raising Children Network 

  • For families with young children, the Raising Children Network offers practical advice on managing common childhood illnesses, including colds, coughs and fever. 

• Brisbane South Primary Health Network  

  • The BSPHN immunisation and prevention resources page provides practical guidance for general practices, including vaccination support, prevention strategies and quality improvement initiatives. 

The continuing role of general practice 

Winter brings predictable challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. However, proactive preparation can make a significant difference in reducing illness and supporting patients to manage symptoms safely. 

By encouraging vaccination, reviewing chronic conditions and promoting practical prevention strategies, general practice can help patients approach the winter season with greater confidence. 

Sometimes, a brief conversation during a routine consultation is all it takes to help patients feel better prepared for the months ahead. 

About the author 

Dr Asma’a Gundru is a GP and medical educator who also works as a (GP) Clinical Advisor with Brisbane South PHN. She has a special interest in supporting community health through education and preventative care.