Flu cases up 75 per cent in one week in Brighton and Hove

The local NHS has seen a 75 per cent spike in flu cases over the last week.
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As this winter’s flu season is now taking hold is the city, Brighton and Hove Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is highlighting home treatment advice and urging people to get their flu jab.

Local doctors say flu can’t be treated with antibiotics - flu is caused by viruses and antibiotics only work against bacteria.

Those who get the flu will get better more quickly if they:

Flu rates are upFlu rates are up
Flu rates are up

- Get plenty of rest and sleep

- Make sure they keep warm

- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen

- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration

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Dr David Supple, clinical chair of NHS Brighton and Hove CCG, said: “We are now seeing a steady rise in people visiting their GP with flu like illnesses, however self-care at home is better as anti-biotics don’t work on flu.

“Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can be a very unpleasant illness with symptoms including fever, stuffy nose dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints and extreme tiredness, which can often last several days.

“The very 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.”

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.

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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.