Private doctors and government out-patient clinics reported a drastic increase in influenza cases last week, the Centre for Health Protection noted.

Private doctors' consultation rates for influenza-like illness during the week ending March 12 was 78.1 per 1,000 consultations, a rise of 36.5% compared with 57.2 per 1,000 consultations the week before.

As for government clinics, influenza-like illness consultation rates during the same period was 9.8 per 1,000 consultations as compared with 5.5 per 1,000 consultations the previous week, or an increase of 78%.

People are urged to take these measures to prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses:

* Build up immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
* Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene.
* Wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose.
* Maintain good ventilation.
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.

People, particularly young children, seniors and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they developed flu-like symptoms.