GPs under winter illness pressure (UK)

"GPs in England have been inundated with patients over the festive period, figures from the NHS Alliance suggest. On average there has been a 25% rise in demand for GP out-of-hour services across England with some areas seeing much higher rates. Many of the calls are about flu and latest surveillance figures show levels remain higher than in recent years. GPs urged patients to stock up on cold and flu remedies and get advice from the pharmacist if needed. The vast majority of people with colds and flu just need to take paracetamol for pain and fever, have lots of drinks and rest." But those with existing heart and chest conditions are more vulnerable to complications and should call for advice if their symptoms are lingering or getting worse