Across the country people are becoming concerned about new strains of the flu virus and many celebrities have been taken ill with a particular strain called Aussie flu.

A spokesperson for Herefordshire Council told the Gazette that there is still time to get vaccinated against flu. Dr Arif Mahmood, Herefordshire Council’s consultant in public health, said: “Across the country, more people are visiting GPs with flu symptoms and more people are being admitted to hospital with the flu. I strongly encourage those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine to take up this offer, as it’s not too late and can help to protect you throughout the rest of the winter.

“If you’re suffering with flu like symptoms, you should catch coughs or sneezes in a tissue and bin it immediately, wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water and frequently clean regularly used surfaces to stop the spread of flu. You should also avoid having unnecessary contact with other people, if you or they have symptoms of flu.”

Flu is very infectious and easily spreads to other people and you’re more likely to give it to others in the first five days. Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include:

• A sudden fever – a temperature of 38C or above, • Aching body, • Feeling tired, • Dry, chesty cough, • Sore throat, • Headache, • Difficulty sleeping, • Loss of appetite, • Diarrhoea, tummy pain or nausea. The symptoms are similar for children, but they can also get pain in their ear and appear less active.

To help you get better more quickly rest, keep warm, take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains and drink plenty of water. Your local pharmacist can provide additional advice. You should begin to feel better in about a week, however if your symptoms haven’t improved after seven days or you’re worried about your child, you’re aged over 65, you’re pregnant, have a long term health condition or weakened immune system, make an appointment to see your GP.