WORCESTER residents are being told to think again if they believe they've escaped the winter flu bug.

West Midlands Ambulance Service says rates of flu are currently rising with outbreaks possible into May.

It says it's not too late to receive the winter flu jab.

“There is a big difference between your average cold and a dose of the flu," said Dr Andy Carson, on behalf of the Trust.

“It’s definitely not too late to get vaccinated.

"It takes about two weeks after getting the jab for antibodies to develop in the body that provide protection against the flu.

"Even if you get it next week, you’ll have protection for the best part of four months.

"If you’ve had it, you’ll know it is not something to have more than once."

Flu symptoms can include a sudden high temperature and cough plus a headache, feeling cold, aching muscles, limb or joint pain, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite and diarrhoea or stomach upset.