CASES of flu in Wales are continuing to be reported, with the highest cases seen in people aged from 25 to 65 years old.

Public Health Wales has reported that to the end of January there have been 3,470 GP visits where flu-like illness was diagnosed and 123 patients admitted to hospital with laboratory confirmed influenza.

People eligible to have the vaccine are being encouraged to have it as soon as possible. Those with certain long term health conditions and pregnant women are considered high risk and will be offered a vaccination free from their GP or certain community pharmacies.

Anyone 65 or over is automatically eligible for a free flu vaccine each year.

Unlike the common cold which may develop over several days, flu symptoms usually develop very rapidly, can cause a high temperature and often include a headache, aching muscles, extreme tiredness and cough.

Anyone with symptoms of flu should drink plenty of fluids, take ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve symptoms, and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals while they have symptoms, which usually resolve in about a week.

The flu virus spreads easily via droplets which are sprayed into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Direct contact with contaminated hands or surfaces can also spread infection.

Anyone with flu-like symptoms should follow three simple steps: Catch it – always cough or sneeze into a tissue; Bin it – dispose of the tissue after use and Kill it – wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to kill any flu viruses.

If you are in the ‘at risk’ groups contact your GP or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 for advice as soon as symptoms start.

For more information please visit publichealthwales.org or beatflu.org