Flu rate in Brighton and Hove up 135 per cent – in just one week

The city’s clinical commissioning group (CCG) said the GP consultation rate in the city for flu-like illnesses increased from 9.9 per 100,000 to 23.5 in just one week, adding more pressure on local health services.

Flu symptoms include fever, stuffy nose dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints and extreme tiredness, which can often last several days.

Katy Jackson, director of Urgent Care and Systems Resilience for Central Sussex and East Surrey Commissioning Alliance-South, said: “We are now seeing this winter’s flu season take hold in the city and we advising those who already have flu-like symptoms to rest, drink plenty of water and take paracetamol where needed.

“The best form of protection against flu for those who have not yet got it is to get the vaccine - it still isn’t too late to get the flu vaccine, to protect yourself and vulnerable people around you.”

The NHS said flu can’t be treated with antibiotics – and advised people with the virus to:

- Get plenty of rest and sleep

- Make sure they keep warm

- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen

- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration

The CCG added: “In order to reduce the impact of flu on local NHS services, residents and visitors to the city are being asked to make sure they use the right service for their medical needs, freeing up emergency care for those most in need.

“The NHS Walk In Centre at Brighton Station is open 8am to 8pm for treatment without appointments, NHS 111 is available all day every day and www.nhs.uk is available to check symptoms online around the clock.

“A pharmacist can also help with flu, offering treatment advice and recommend flu remedies, and give guidance on giving medicines to children. No appointment necessary to see a local pharmacist and most have private consultation areas, and will say if you need further medical attention.”