Inflation rose to above four percent for the fifth time in six months, fuelled by the increasing cost of gasoline.

The inflation rate climbed 4.3 percent for October compared to the same period last year to an index total of 105.4.

This was also up from the 3.6 percent rise the previous month, mainly due to the price pressure on the world oil markets leading to an increase in gas costs for the premium blend, which were up 8.6 percent year-over-year.

In addition, the health and personal care and rent sectors impacted strongly on the annual rate of inflation as well, at a rate of price increase of 6.7 percent and 1.8 percent respectively.

Between September and October, the average cost of goods and services in the Consumer Price Index advanced 0.3 percent, with the rent sector edging up 0.1 percent as a result of a 0.3 percent rise in rent-controlled properties. Rental units not subject to rent control were unchanged for the month.

Higher foreign travel costs for both airfares and hotel accommodation caused the sector to rise 1.9 percent.

On average, food prices jumped 0.4 percent in October, with fresh milk (4.4 percent), ready-made frozen cakes (1.6 percent) and dry pasta (1.3 percent) the main contributors.

Meanwhile, the health sector rose 0.5 percent overall, due primarily to higher health costs for doctors' visits and dental fees. On average, consumers paid 5.6 percent more for doctors' visits, while dental fees advanced 0.7 percent and eye care services climbed 3.3 percent.

The average cost of items in the services and communications sector edged up 0.1 percent as a result of continued upwards pressure on the price of household supply products of 0.4 percent.

The clothing and footwear sector fell 4.9 percent for the month as consumers paid less for women's clothing, while the tobacco and liquor sector advanced 0.1 percent in the response to a 0.4 percent increase in the price of beer.