With Christmas a few weeks away, the health ministry is reminding persons to avoid mass gatherings if they have flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat and runny nose.

The ministry indicated in a press release that even if symptoms were mild, persons were being strongly cautioned against going into crowded areas.

"As we enter into the regular flu season we will be seeing increased cases of seasonal influenza and Influenza A H1N1. To reduce the risk of contracting the influenza virus, the public is advised to maintain high standards of personal hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing and sneezing, and avoiding unnecessary contact with persons who are ill," said Dr Marion Bullock DuCasse, director of emergency disaster management and special services.

stay alert

She added that those who fell in the high-risk group should immediately contact their doctor or go to the nearest health centre if they developed flu-like symptoms.

"Because these persons are at risk for developing complications from Influenza A H1N1, we would like them to seek medical attention promptly, however mild their symptoms are," Dr Bullock DuCasse added.

The Ministry of Health has confirmed eight more cases of Influenza A H1N1, bringing the total number to 191. The number of reported deaths still stands at six.