RESIDENTS are being urged to protect themselves and their loved ones as latest figures from Public Health England (PHE) indicate that flu is continuing to circulate in the community – with outbreaks across Cheshire and Merseyside.

Dr Dan Seddon, screening and immunisation lead in Merseyside, said: “A large number of people in “at risk” groups have already had their flu jab however there are some who are eligible who need to get immunised especially as flu is still circulating.

“It’s not too late for people in ‘at risk’ groups to get the flu vaccine for free as they are at much greater risk of becoming seriously unwell if they catch flu, and sadly many end up in hospital.

“This includes people with health conditions, even those that are well managed, such as asthma, diabetes, heart, lung, liver or renal diseases, those with weakened immune systems, as well as older people and pregnant women. Anyone in these groups who hasn’t yet had the vaccine should contact their GP.”

The vaccine is also available in the form of a needle-free painless nasal spray for all two to four year olds in Cheshire and Merseyside.

Aside from vaccination, hygiene is the main method that can help prevent the spread of flu and PHE is urging everyone to carry tissues and to use them to catch coughs or sneezes, to bin the used tissues as soon as possible and then to wash their hands and kill the germs.

Dr Seddon added: “The best advice for treating flu in healthy people is to stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and take appropriate pain relievers, such as paracetamol. Children under 16 should not take any medicines containing aspirin.

“People in at risk groups, who develop symptoms consistent with flu, or if anyone’s symptoms persist or become more severe, should seek medical advice.

“People who may have symptoms of flu are also being urged not to visit places such as care homes or hospitals whilst PHE also encourages healthcare workers and carers who have not yet been vaccinated, to get their free flu jab.”