The Department of Health has reported a rise in the number of flu cases on the island.

Its Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit urged residents to protect themselves against influenza and wash their hands to reduce the chances of infection.

“It is not too late to get your flu shot at the Hamilton Health Centre on Victoria Street or through some private physicians,” a spokeswoman said.

“The flu shot can lessen the effects of the flu. The seasonal influenza vaccine costs $10 per shot for both adults and children aged 3 and above.

The vaccine for children aged 6 months to 35 months requires a note from the child’s physician.

“Those over the age of 65 years will receive the seasonal flu vaccine free of charge.”

The Hamilton Health Centre is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday between 8.30am and 11.30am, and on Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm for flu shots.

• For more information on influenza, visit gov.bm/health-data-and-monitoring under Disease Fact Sheets, or call 278-6460