AN OXFORD GP has said the best way to beat seasonal flu is by using common sense and making sure vulnerable people are properly protected.

Dr Joe McManners, from Headington, said: “Preventing flu is all about striking a balance between taking sensible precautions and worrying about it too much.”

The advice comes as the Government relaunched its national flu prevention campaign, urging people to catch their sneezes and coughs, and wash their hands.

According to the latest statistics, 738 patients across the UK are now receiving intensive treatment for flu.

This has risen from 438 a week before. There have also been 12 deaths from flu in the past week.

No Oxfordshire figures were available from the county’s primary care trust yesterday.

Dr McManners said: “We have noticed an increase in people with flu, but no more than is usual at this time of year.

“So people who do have weakened immune systems should avoid contact with those who have flu and make sure they are immunised.

“But common sense should prevail. Flu itself is not dangerous – it’s only when there are complications because of other conditions that problems can occur.”

Risk groups include pregnant women, the very young and old, and people suffering from conditions such as chronic respiratory, heart, kidney, or liver disease.