GP consultations for flu-like illnesses went up slightly over a seven-day period, according to Public Health England (PHE).

The latest weekly national influenza report from PHE revealed the consultation rate went up from 17.5 per 100,000 registered population to 19.7 per 100,000 up to the week ending February 3.

PHE, who said the data showed “seasonal flu continues to circulate across the UK,” also revealed 73 acute respiratory outbreaks were reported while 41 outbreaks were reported from care homes “where 21 tested positive for influenza A (not subtyped) and two for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus.)”

Richard Pebody, head of flu at PHE, said: “A(H1N1)pdm09 continues to be the main circulating strain, which is well matched to the strains in this year’s flu vaccines.

“To prevent the spread of flu, it is important to practice good respiratory and hand hygiene, and to avoid close contact with others if you have flu symptoms.”

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