Young fitness-junkie details superflu nightmare as doctors warn of winter cold and flu surge

A Melbourne athlete who was hospitalised after suffering a bout of ‘super flu’ has warned Australians they can be struck down in the worst possible way, no matter how healthy they are. 

Entrepreneur and athlete Louis Phillips, 23, would normally be considered a picture of health and wellness — he’s very athletic, and is the cofounder of a gym business. 

But a bout of influenza left Mr Phillips bedridden and on a hospital drip for the past week, as doctors warn the flu is coming back with a vengeance this winter after two years of Covid-safe measures. 

Mr Phillips said his experience began as a regular bout of influenza – but when the going got tougher he knew he needed the help of medical professionals.