Influenza outbreaks hit five institutions between March 1 and 8, showing Hong Kong has entered its peak flu season.

The Centre for Health Protection said private doctors have seen an increase in flu-like cases. For the week ending February 26, the consultation rate for flu was 47.1 per 1,000 consultations, up 33.8% on the previous week.

Laboratory surveillance has also seen an increase of flu virus detection, with about 60% of isolates being Influenza A (H3N2).

Absenteeism at childcare centres due to sickness has risen to 5.82% from 3.5% the previous week.

The centre urged people to guard against flu and other respiratory illnesses. They should:

* build good body immunity through proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;

* maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;

* wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose;

* maintain good ventilation; and,

* avoid crowded places with poor ventilation.

People, particularly young children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear facemasks and consult their doctors promptly if they develop flu-like symptoms.