NewTeleDoc Medical connects patients across Australia with AHPRA-registered GPs for online cold, flu, and COVID-19 care. Submit a 3-minute online request for a medical certificate ($15) to cover sick or carer's leave, or book a telehealth consultation ($49) for personalized GP advice and prescription assessments. For life-threatening emergencies or severe breathing difficulty, call 000 immediately.
Telehealth GP Consultations for Cold, Flu & COVID-19
Skip the clinic waiting room while sick. Speak with an Australian-registered GP from home for diagnosis, clinical treatment advice, e-Prescriptions, antiviral assessments, and medical certificates.
⏱️ Time-Sensitive Antiviral Treatments Available
If you are at higher risk of severe illness, COVID-19 or Influenza antivirals (e.g., Paxlovid or Tamiflu) must be started within 48 hours to 5 days of symptom onset to be effective. Our GPs evaluate your risk factors and issue e-Prescriptions directly to your smartphone if eligible.
Cold vs. Flu vs. COVID-19: How to Tell the Difference
Viral respiratory infections share similar symptoms. Review key clinical indicators below.
| Feature / Symptom | Common Cold | Influenza (Flu) | COVID-19 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symptom Onset | Gradual | Sudden (over hours) | Variable (2–14 days) |
| Fever | Rare or Mild | High fever common (3–4 days) | Common |
| Body Aches & Fatigue | Slight | Severe body aches & fatigue | Common |
| Sore Throat & Nasal Congestion | Very Common | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Loss of Taste or Smell | Rare | Rare | Common (Specific Variant Indicator) |
| Antiviral Medications | Not Available | Available (e.g. Tamiflu) | Available (e.g. Paxlovid) |
How Our Online GP Can Assist You
Get comprehensive viral care from the comfort of your couch.
Clinical Evaluation
Your GP evaluates your respiratory symptoms, duration of illness, and underlying risk profile via phone or video consult.
eScript Prescriptions
If appropriate, receive electronic prescriptions (eScripts) for oral antivirals or symptom relief directly via SMS.
Sick Leave Certificates
Receive official digital medical certificates for work or study sent straight to your phone and email.
Frequently Asked Questions & Care Guidance
Clear medical answers for viral respiratory care in Australia.
Antivirals are recommended for higher-risk individuals to reduce severe complications and hospitalisation. High-risk groups include:
• Adults aged 70+ (or 50+ with risk factors, or First Nations people aged 30+).
• Immunocompromised individuals or people with severe chronic heart, lung, kidney, or neurological conditions.
Generally no. Colds, influenza, and COVID-19 are viral infections. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Taking antibiotics for a virus will not speed recovery and increases antibiotic resistance. If your GP suspects a secondary bacterial infection (e.g. chest infection), they will advise you accordingly.
Yes. Following your online clinical review, an AHPRA-registered GP can issue an official medical certificate for personal sick leave or carer's leave under the Fair Work Act 2009.
If you experience progressive shortness of breath, high persistent fever unresponsive to medication, or continuous vomiting, seek in-person GP care immediately or attend a hospital emergency department.
Speak With an Australian GP From Home
Get treatment advice, prescriptions, and official medical certificates without stepping outside.