Aussie flu symptoms include headaches, fevers, sore throats and vomiting.
While the symptoms are similar to those of normal flu, they tend to last longer for Aussie flu, and are more severe.
People that are worried they may have the condition are advised to stay away from GP surgeries, as they could spread the virus further.
These are five ways to lower your risk of catching the flu virus.
Flu jab
The trivalent and quadrivalent flu jabs could protect against the specific Aussie flu virus – a mutated H3N2 influenza A virus.
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Superdrug confirmed its flu jab sales had more than doubled in the first week of 2018, over fears of the Australian flu infection.
Public Health England and St John Ambulance also urged the public, carers and medical staff to get the flu jab.
The vaccine is available at most pharmacies, and is free on the NHS to the most at-risk patients. That includes the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with long-term health conditions.
Wash hands
You could lower your risk of becoming infected with Aussie flu by washing your hands regularly.
Using warm water and soap is the best way to protect against the virus, according to Qured GP, Dr Amy Bibby.
St John Ambulance added: “Wash your hands and use alcohol gels regularly throughout the day.”
Avoid crowded areas
You should try and avoid crowded areas as much as possible – including GP waiting rooms.
Infections and superbugs can be transmitted through unsanitised hands. Hand rails and door handles could harbour infections, making them easily transferable.
If you do use public transport, or frequently visit crowded spaces, it’s best to carry alcohol gel with you, or to wash your hands regularly.
Maintain good hygiene
Maintaining good overall hygiene could help to prevent agains Aussie flu, according to St John Ambulance.
It said that good hygiene was of the “utmost importance” to stop the spread of the deadly flu.
“Flu should be taken seriously, and by taking proper precautions and looking after yourself, and those around you, should hopefully prevent the virus from turning into something more serious that requires emergency attention,” said St John Ambulance’s Clinical Director Alan Muir.
Food supplements
Omega-3 supplements have been claimed to boost the immune system – the first line of defence against viruses.
Wiley’s Finest nutritionist, Babi Chana, said: “They build healthy mucus membranes – the delicate skin that lines the airways and digestive systems, which act as a first line barrier guarding against entry of germs into the body.”
Just one or two capsules a day could protect against Aussie flu, Chana claimed.