This season the Hunter has seen peak flu figures which are more than doubling previous years.
Information from Hunter New England Health have indicated influenza has started earlier in the year with significant increases to 1200 infected in comparison to 400 last year.
These figures also represent a fraction of those infected as most are not medically diagnosed in the region meaning more than ever, prevention steps are crucial.
Hunter New England Health physician, David Durrheim says its never too late for adults to complete their vaccination and steps such as sanitation and hand washing are essential.
"It is at the moment unclear why this has had such dramatic increase but it is clear that individuals with symptoms of the flu: high fever, muscle aches and sore throat should not infect other places of vulnerability"
"It is important for those infected to be sensible members of the community and to stay away from higher risk groups particularly in hospitals, childcare facilities or workplaces, it really is negligent"
"Certainly those in highest risk groups such as elderly, Torres Strait Islanders and those with chronic illnesses should be vaccinated especially, bearing in mind the process could take up to two weeks to be completely protected."
