Flu cases on the rise in county

Doctors said the elderly are particularly susceptible to flu

The number of people suffering from flu has risen by a third in Oxfordshire during the past four weeks.

It means extra pressure for surgeries and hospitals across the region over the Christmas and New Year period.

GPs are reporting busier surgeries and hospitals are seeing more patients in out-of-hours services.

Doctors say there should be no major problems for normal healthy adults but to look out for elderly relatives who may be suffering.

'Significant strain'

Dr Nina Brown, from the Wychwood Surgery, said: "We've seen flu-type illnesses mainly in healthy adults and it's what we see every year but it's coming a bit thicker and faster right now.

"We've not had to open longer hours but we've had to get more people through in that time. We've had some very, very busy surgeries."

It was reported earlier in the week that the number of flu cases in England and Wales is heading for a nine-year high.

GP surveillance data has shown a 75% rise in cases in a week and a 73% increase on last year's figures.

Pete McGrain, clinical lead for urgent care services for Oxfordshire PCT, said: "This year attendances have been really quite dramatic - a 33% increase on last year.

"That's going to have really quite a significant impact. It really will put our services under quite a significant strain."

Symptoms include a swift onset of the illness, plus a very high temperature, shivers, joint, head and back-ache.

The doctors said if anyone is feeling unwell to stay away from elderly relatives or those with existing conditions that could be made worse by flu.

Anyone who is worried about symptoms should contact NHS Direct.