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General muscle pain and discomfort throughout the body. Often accompanies viral infections.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
Body aches are classic flu symptoms.
You might suspect this if you have:
Body aches common with COVID.
You might suspect this if you have:
Muscle soreness from exercise.
You might suspect this if you have:
Can cause muscle cramps and aches.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Generalised body aches most commonly accompany viral infections — influenza is the classic example, producing profound muscle pain alongside fever and fatigue. COVID-19 also frequently causes body aches. The mechanism is the immune system releasing cytokines that cause widespread inflammation. Body aches can also be caused by overexertion, dehydration, fibromyalgia, or autoimmune conditions. If body aches persist beyond 2 weeks without an obvious cause, blood tests may be warranted to check for underlying conditions.
Medical certificate guidance: Body aches as part of flu or viral illness warrant 3-5 days off. The aches usually resolve as the infection clears. If body aches are so severe that you cannot perform physical tasks or concentrate, a certificate is appropriate.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
Yes, especially when part of flu or viral illness that prevents you from working.
Usually 3-5 days. Rest and fluids help.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
A body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). Usually a sign your body is fighting an infection. Common and usually not serious in adults.
Persistent tiredness or exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest. Can significantly impact work, relationships, and quality of life.
Pain in any region of the head, ranging from sharp to dull, that may occur with other symptoms. One of the most common health complaints.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get assessedThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.