06 May 2025
As winter sets in, so does the annual wave of sniffles, sore throats, chesty coughs, and sinus infections. It’s common during this time of year to wonder whether you might need antibiotics—and if so, how to get them quickly and conveniently.
At Our Sage Telehealth, we’re here to help you access safe, appropriate medical care from the comfort of your home. That includes guidance on whether you need antibiotics and, if suitable, an electronic prescription (eScript) sent straight to your phone or email.
An eScript is a secure, digital version of a prescription that you can receive after a consultation with a GP. Instead of a paper script, you’ll get a text or email with a QR code (also called a “token”) that can be scanned at your local pharmacy to collect your medication. It's fast, convenient, and ideal when you're unwell and prefer not to leave the house more than necessary.
Yes—but only when clinically appropriate.
Antibiotics are powerful medications that are only effective for bacterial infections. They don’t work on viral illnesses like the common cold, most sore throats, or the flu. However, some winter illnesses can develop into bacterial infections, including:
Tonsillitis
Sinus infections
Middle ear infections
Bacterial chest infections (e.g., bronchitis or pneumonia)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can also be common in colder months
In these cases, if a GP determines that your symptoms are likely caused by bacteria, they may issue an eScript for antibiotics after a telehealth consultation.
Many people assume antibiotics are a quick fix for any infection, but overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance, making them less effective when they’re genuinely needed. That's why GPs follow strict clinical guidelines to decide when antibiotics are necessary.
Through Our Sage Telehealth, you’ll have a consult with a qualified Australian GP who will:
Ask about your symptoms
Assess the severity and duration of your illness
Provide treatment advice (whether that’s rest, over-the-counter support, or prescription medicine)
Issue an eScript if antibiotics are required
If you're feeling unwell and think you might need antibiotics, the first step is to book a general telehealth consultation through Our Sage. Our doctors are available 7am to 11pm (AEST), 7 days a week—including public holidays.
If the GP decides that antibiotics are appropriate, you’ll receive an eScript via SMS or email within minutes, ready to be filled at your nearest pharmacy.
It’s a good idea to book a consult if you’re experiencing:
Persistent sore throat or swollen tonsils
Painful, blocked sinuses lasting more than 10 days
A cough with green or yellow mucus, chest pain, or fever
Ear pain, especially in children
Burning pain during urination
Recurring symptoms that don’t improve with rest
Book a GP consult with one of the Our Sage doctors here
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