The HSE is urging people with the flu to stay away from hospital emergency departments and GP surgeries where possible in order to help stop the virus spreading.

A trip to either facility may spread the flu to people who may be in at-risk groups which could prove deadly, according to the health service.

It is advising anyone who has the flu to instead rest at home, drink lots of fluids and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease any symptoms.

However, they say that those in at-risk groups - as well as otherwise healthy people who haven't gotten better after a week of a flu-like illness - should seek medical advice from their GP.

The HSE is also reminding the public that it is not too late to get the flu vaccine.

Dr Vida Hamilton of the HSE's Acute Hospital Operations said: "You will know when you have the flu. It comes on more suddenly than a cold, the whole body is affected, and you’ll experience loss of appetite and energy.

"By venturing out to the GP or Emergency Department, you are not only putting your body through a stressful time, you are spreading the virus to people who may be in the at risk groups."

She added: "Remember, there will be sicker, immuno-compromised, and elderly and frail people at the surgery and in our hospitals, for whom exposure to flu could prove fatal, so think before your head out the door.”

People are also being urged to ensure to correctly wash their hands, cover any coughs and sneezes, and to immediately dispose of any tissues.