Health body reports major rise in cases of 'flu

The number of influenza-like cases in the first five weeks of this year are up more than two and a half times from the same period in 2015.

A report produced by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre shows there have been 1,095 cases reported from January 1 until February 6.

It was 430 for the same five weeks last year.

The centre says that 338 were reported in the week up to Saturday, February 6, alone.

They said that the incidence of 'flu is expected to increase over the coming weeks and circulate for at least another six to eight weeks.

They are encouraging people to get the influenza vaccine which is available free of charge from GPs for all people in at risk groups, and from pharmacists for everyone in risk groups aged 18 years and over.

At-risk groups for the vaccine are:

* All those aged 65 years and older

* People including children with chronic illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, chronic neurological disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and diabetes

* Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment

* All pregnant women. The vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy.

* Those with morbid obesity i.e. Body Mass Index ≥ 40

* Residents of nursing homes, old people's homes and other long stay facilities

* Health care workers and carers of those in risk groups.