Trusted winter health support from Ocean Medical Practice – your local Bondi medical centre
As we reach the end Winter, we have noticed an increase in common winter illnesses. August is the peak month for Influenza. For parents of young children and adults of all ages, staying well during winter is essential to avoid disruptions to work, school, and family life.
At Ocean Medical Practice, your trusted Bondi medical centre & GP clinic, we see a noticeable rise in appointments during winter for seasonal infections. Our team is here to support your family’s health with expert care, practical advice, and convenient appointment options—including bulk billing for children and Saturday availability.
Why Are Illnesses More Common in Winter?
There are several reasons winter illnesses spike between May and September:
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Lower temperatures drive people indoors, increasing close contact and spreading viruses more easily.
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Dry air from heaters dries out the nasal passages, making it easier for viruses to enter the body.
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Reduced sunlight exposure lowers vitamin D levels, which can impact immunity.
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Schools and childcare settings become hotspots for viral spread among children who may not yet practise proper hygiene.
Common Winter Illnesses to Watch For
Here are some of the most prevalent conditions we treat during winter at Ocean Medical Practice:
1. Colds and Flu (Influenza)
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Caused by respiratory viruses.
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Symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, congestion.
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Flu can be serious, especially for children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses.
2. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
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Very common in children under five.
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Causes bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
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Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing.
3. COVID-19
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Continues to circulate, with more cases seen during colder months.
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COVID can overlap with other respiratory illnesses and often requires testing for clarity.
4. Middle Ear Infections
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More common in children during winter due to lingering colds.
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Symptoms: ear pain, fever, irritability, reduced hearing.
5. Asthma Flare-ups
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Cold air and viral infections can trigger asthma attacks, especially in children and adults with poorly controlled symptoms.
6. Gastroenteritis
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Winter vomiting bugs or “stomach flu” are highly contagious.
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Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.
How to Prevent Winter Illnesses
While winter bugs are hard to avoid entirely, there are proactive steps your family can take to reduce risk and stay healthier this season.
✅ Get Vaccinated
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Annual flu shots are strongly recommended for children, adults, and those with chronic health issues.
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COVID-19 booster vaccinations are still recommended for eligible individuals.
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Our Bondi doctors & GP Team can advise which vaccines are right for your family.
✅ Boost Your Immune System
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Eat a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
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Consider a vitamin D supplement, especially during months with reduced sun exposure.
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Ensure regular exercise and quality sleep.
✅ Maintain Hygiene
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Teach children to wash hands regularly with soap and water.
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Cover mouths and noses with elbows when coughing or sneezing.
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Disinfect shared household surfaces frequently.
✅ Keep Your Home Healthy
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Ventilate your home regularly—even during colder months—to reduce airborne viral particles.
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Use a humidifier if heating dries out the air.
✅ Manage Pre-existing Conditions
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Keep asthma medications up to date and follow your child’s asthma action plan.
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Attend regular reviews with your GP if you have diabetes, lung conditions, or a weakened immune system.
Why Choose Ocean Medical Practice This Winter?
Ocean Medical Practice is more than just a local clinic—we’re a community-focused Bondi medical centre & GP clinic dedicated to personalised, preventative care.
Here’s how we support your family’s health this winter:
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Convenient access to experienced Bondi doctors
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Bulk billing for children Monday to Friday from 10am to 2:45pm
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Open Saturdays, so you don’t have to wait until Monday
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Same-day appointments available for urgent issues
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Expert support for vaccinations, children’s health, asthma, and winter illnesses
While GP Bondi, Bondi Road Doctors, and Bondi Doctors also serve the area, Ocean Medical Practice stands out for our warm, family-friendly personalised care and weekday children’s bulk-billing hours.
Your Family’s Health Starts Here
If you or your child is feeling unwell this winter, don’t wait until symptoms get worse. Book an appointment with one of our caring GPs today and take control of your winter wellbeing.
📍 Location: 194 Bondi Road
📞 Phone: 9386 9822
🌐 Online bookings: oceanmedical.com.au/book
Ocean Medical Practice – Your local Bondi GP medical centre for trusted winter care.
