Lincolnshire County Council public health chief’s advice after ‘more severe’ flu season

County health chiefs have issued advice following a "more severe" flu season both nationally and locally.

Andy Fox, consultant in public health at Lincolnshire County Council, has urged those suffering from the flu this winter to practice regular handwashing and limit contact with others.

The United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust (ULHT) reports that the number of patients being treated for flu across the county more than quadrupled between the end of November and December 29.

Experts warn there are indications nationally that cases may "top out" over the next two weeks before numbers begin to decline.

Meanwhile, the European Union is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) due to an outbreak overseas in China.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said cases across Europe were not unusual for this time of year but that it would continue to assess the situation.

Earlier this week, the World Health Organisation warned that people with the disease should stay at home and consider wearing face masks.

A spokesperson stated: "WHO recommends that individuals in areas where it is winter take normal precautions to prevent the spread and reduce risks posed by respiratory pathogens, especially to the most vulnerable.

"People with mild symptoms should stay at home to avoid infecting other people and rest. People at high risk or with complicated or severe symptoms should seek medical care as soon as possible."

While some national media titles questioned whether this could be the first step towards another pandemic or lockdown, Mr Fox reassured county residents that HMPV is "nothing new and has been circulating seasonally for many years".

He added: "We expect an increase in all circulating respiratory viruses in winter, as well as things like norovirus. Nationally and locally we are experiencing a more severe flu season this year, so it is not a surprise that there are more cases of other viruses too this year.

"The public health advice remains the same, and the spread of infection can be reduced by regular handwashing and limiting contact with others if you are ill."