College president and Meadowbank GP Dr Jonathan Fox said today if a patient with flu-like symptoms turned up in a crowded waiting room, there was immediate risk the virus would spread.

"When you ring the general practice, tell the receptionist you have flu-like symptoms and want to speak to your GP or the person who is taking such calls. Many practices will delegate this role to a practice nurse," he said.

New Zealand is already heading into the flu season. Health officials are concentrating, therefore, on people who have been in the United States of America or Mexico within the last two weeks, and who are developing flu-like symptoms; a runny nose, a cough or sneeze. If you have had recent contact with such a traveler and have symptoms, mention that when you call.

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the rubbish bin after you use it Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. Try to avoid close contact with sick people

Influenza is thought to spread person-to-person mainly through the coughing or sneezing of infected people If you get sick we recommend that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.