Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
25 June 2012 11:04
Encouragin people to wash their hands helped keep cases of flu to their lowest on record during last winter.
The number of people in England and Wales suffering from flu was the lowest on record last winter, experts say.
Figures from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) say the rates of influenza-like complaints in GP consultations were just 30 per 100,000, well down on the figure of 130 in the 2010/11 winter.
That winter was deemed "one of the most intense flu seasons we've seen in recent years," according to Dr Richard Pebody, head of the HPA's influenza surveillance section, but despite the more recent fall in flu cases, holiday-makers would be wise to make sure they have good medical travel insurance cover just in case.
Although instances of flu were lower, 20 people with the virus died while in intensive care and "significant numbers" of cases were reported in care homes for the elderly.
"One of the key take-home messages is that nothing is predictable about flu, aside from the fact that it will circulate every year," Dr Pebody said. He stressed that it is important to make people aware that flu is still a serious illness, especially for those likely to suffer complications and that vaccination remains the best method for patients to lower the risk.
Travelling with a medical condition? Get great value cover from World First
04 November 2019
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
[more...]
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.
Where's the best beach in Croatia? We answer that question and more as we look at the Adriatic beaches you won't want to miss out on...
02 October 2019
Enjoy National Pizza Month and grab a slice of history with the true story of everyone's favourite Italian flat-bread...