Flu-like illnesses at record levels

FLU-LIKE illnesses have reached the highest ever recorded levels since surveillance began 11 years ago.

The rate of flu-like illnesses almost doubled over the past two weeks, with the rate increasing in all age groups but particularly in those aged between 15 and 64.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre confirmed yesterday that flu-like illnesses had reached the highest recorded levels since surveillance began during the winter flu season in 2000/2001.