STOKE-ON-TRENT'S director of public health is advising that people who become infected by swine flu and have a relatively mild illness need not take the antiviral Tamiflu.

Dr Giri Rajaratnam said: "Everyone will have access to the antiviral medicine but they should consider whether or not they need it. Tamiflu can have side effects.

"The best thing to do is rest and drink plenty of fluids."

However, Dr Rajaratnam emphasised there are particular groups who need to contact their GP if they have flu symptoms – such as the chronically ill, the very young and pregnant women.

People who suspect they have swine flu should call the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100.