WARNINGS of a flu epidemic in the North West have been rubbished by the area's health officials.

Some reports have suggested areas such as Greater Manchester were on red alert fearing a massive outbreak over the coming week.

But the North West Health Protection Agency said although flu levels were running higher than they had for three years they were still at the normal seasonal level of 50 cases per 100,000 people. Epidemic level is considered to be 400 cases per 100,000 or above.

However, they are still urging people in at risk groups such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses, to get vaccinated against flu.

Dr John Watson, a respiratory expert at the HPA said: "For the last three years, we have seen very low levels of flu in the UK but flu activity has started earlier than normal this year so we are expecting to see more cases.

"Laboratory testing so far this year shows that the main strain circulating is a Fujian-like strain. This is slightly different to the Panama-like virus, which has been circulating in the UK in recent years. The current flu vaccine contains the Panama-like virus and is considered to offer some protection against the Fujian-like strain and good protection against other strains that may also circulate.

"When flu strains change over time, they are more likely to affect the young who will have less immunity to them. For this reason it is especially important for children over six months of age, who fall into the at-risk groups, to be vaccinated."

The North West regional director of public health, Professor John Ashton, said: "People should be taking general measures to make sure they are not vulnerable, by keeping fit and eating properly."

Flu is a disease of the lungs and upper airways spread by coughing, sneezing and hand contact with anyone infected. The main symptoms are a high temperature, aches and pains, a loss in appetite, nausea and a harsh dry cough. For most people symptoms peak after three days but it may take three weeks before they fully recover.

To book a free flu jab or get advice contact your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.