HOSPITALS in Buckinghamshire continue to run normally despite an increase in flu and ‘winter related illnesses’, health bosses say.

The number of cases has gone up in Buckinghamshire, as it has done nationally.

Department of Health figures show there has been a 50 per cent rise in the number of patients in intensive care with flu in just three days, across the country.

The statistics, released yesterday, show 460 beds in England were occupied by flu patients, compared to 302 on Monday.

Patients visiting GPs with the illness doubled in the past week and younger age groups are suffering more than others.

But Government health bosses said the rise was to be expected.

There has been 27 deaths from flu this winter, compared to nearly 500 in last year's pandemic.

A statement from NHS Buckinghamshire read: “Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust has seen an increase in the number of winter related illnesses in recent weeks, in line with the national situation.

"This has not impacted on the day-to-day running of our hospitals.

“The Trust will continue to monitor this situation closely."

Residents have been urged to heed the trust’s advice.

Keeping warm is essential, as is good hygiene.

Following the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ technique is important, as is drinking plenty of fluids, the trust said.

For a comprehensive run down of what to do to avoid and to treat colds and flu over Christmas see Advice issued on Flu under related articles below.

For medical advice and nurse support during the festive holidays on the phone 24 hours a day call NHS Direct 0845 46 47.

During the Christmas break GP surgeries will be closed on public holidays.

If you need a GP and your surgery is closed call the out of hours GP service on: 0300 130 3035.

In snowy and icy conditions patients are reminded to only travel to A&E or call 999 for an ambulance if it is a medical emergency that threatens a person’s life or a limb.