“The flu season is here and it is important that people, particularly vulnerable people, take care with regard to influenza.

“The flu virus is especially dangerous for elderly people, pregnant woman, Aboriginal people, very young children and people with underlying medical conditions,” Director of Public Health Tracey Oakman said.

In general, the flu is worse than a common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense, and often start suddenly.

Colds are usually milder than the flu and symptoms generally develop over a longer period.

If you have the flu, or are around someone who does, it’s important to take the following steps:

Mrs Oakman reminded those visiting friends and family in the hospital or aged care facilities to practise good hand hygiene by using the alcohol based gel or foam provided to reduce the spread of germs.

People who have flu symptoms should postpone visits to hospitals or aged care facilities until they have completely recovered.

Health District are also being vaccinated too to help protect our patients. Andrew Newton, Southern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive has set the example.

Mr Newton was amongst the first to receive his flu vaccination at South East Regional Hospital last week.

Concerned parents and families can seek health advice and information via the free Health Direct Australia service, staffed by registered nurses 24-hours a day, on 1800 022 222.

For a range of health information about the flu, visit NSW Health.