SWINDON has largely escaped major flu problems seen elsewhere, data suggests.

Figures shared by Public Health England showed just one outbreak of the virus in a Swindon care home at the end of last year.

However, the government quango said that low numbers could be caused by delays in reporting – with numbers expected to rise over the coming weeks.

In Gloucestershire, 19 flu outbreaks have been recorded at care homes since mid-October.

It came as experts warned of a rise in the number of cases of so-called “Aussie flu”, a strain of Influenza A that has left thousands needing hospital treatment.

In the past week, 3,750 have been hospitalised with flu across England – an almost three-fold increase on the previous seven days.

Professor Paul Cosford, Public Health England’s medical director, said: “Our data shows that more people are visiting GPs with flu symptoms and we are seeing more people admitted to hospitals with the flu.

“The vaccine is the best defence we have against the spread of flu and it isn’t too late to get vaccinated.”

But compared to other areas, Swindon’s flu rate appears relatively low.

Carole Cusack, of Wessex Local Medical Committees, which represents Swindon GPs, said: “We’re seeing more cases of flu, but we’re not seeing any more than one or two outbreaks in nursing homes – and not so much in Swindon. We’re not seeing a major problem.”

An airborne virus, flu can keep even the fittest adult bed bound. Symptoms range from coughs and fever to extreme tiredness.

Flu can lead to serious complications for those with long-term health conditions like bronchitis or liver disease.

Dr Peter Mack, clinical chair at Swindon Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Whilst flu is usually a self-limiting illness, it can be very dangerous and cause serious complications for vulnerable people.”

Adults over 65, children over two, carers, pregnant women and those with certain health conditions like asthma are eligible for a free flu vaccination on the NHS.

For more, visit: www.nhs.uk/staywell.