year, a top Government doctor said last night.

And the number of influenza victims in the latter part of 1996 was also greater than the norm.

But Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Cann said the Island was not in the grip of an epidemic -- although he added the virus seemed to be knocking out victims for longer.

He said: "The number of cases are not way in excess of what they were around this time last year.'' But he cautioned anyone struck with the 'flu bug to take it seriously and handle it properly.

Dr. Cann said: "People should treat the 'flu with respect. They should take rest and take plenty of fluids.

"If it continues beyond the normal two or three day period, they should check with their physician.'' Dr. Cann said healthy people had nothing to fear with the current 'flu bug.

But he added that the elderly and those with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes or HIV should visit their doctor, who could recommend an injection to beat the bug.

Dr. Cann said: "We do bring in a 'flu vaccine and give it primarily to the elderly and those who have chronic conditions.'' A spokeswoman for King Edward VII Memorial Hospital said some staff had called in sick -- although the 'flu had not caused a staffing crisis.

She added patients in the hospital appeared to be largely unaffected.

Dr. Cann's views were backed by Health and Social Services Minister Harry Soares.

He said: "There has been quite a bit of the 'flu and it does seem to be lingering. And I do know there have been more cases than we would consider average. The situation is being monitored.'' The news comes as Britain was gripped not only with 'flu, but a condition called "false 'flu.'' False 'flu is a respiratory virus which mimics the symptoms of 'flu and causes bronchitis and the 'flu vaccine provides no protection.