Guernsey bucks national influenza trend

Guernsey is bucking the trend of a rise in hospital flu admissions across the British Isles, according to the Health and Social Services Department.

It said it was not aware of any influenza patients being admitted to the Princess Elizabeth Hospital.

The department has encouraged those at higher risk of developing complications after catching flu to get vaccinated.

However, it said it was unable to provide figures for how many people had done so.

A spokesperson said those at higher risk included the elderly, pregnant women and patients with heart problems, diabetes, lung, liver or renal diseases or those who have weak immune systems.

The department has also recommended vaccination for those living in long-stay residential care homes, where any infection it likely to spread quickly, as well as for carers of elderly or disabled people whose welfare may be at risk if their carer falls ill.