People suffering with flu-like symptoms or the norovirus are being advised to stay away from hospitals and GPs this winter. Skip related content

The warning by health experts and medical staff comes after an increase in the number of flu cases being reported across the UK.

One hospital in particular, The Princess Royal University Hospital in Kent, is turning away patients with norovirus symptoms and asking them to stay at home.

In a statement, the South London Healthcare NHS Trust said: "please only visit the hospital if it's essential. we are restricting visitors to two per patient.

"Members of the public who have had diarrhoea and/or vomiting in the previous three days must not attend the hospital."

The hospital saw an increase in the number of patients with the norovirus infection, with approximately 50 cases identified since last week.

Infection prevention and control procedures are being reinforced at the hospital to ensure it does not spread to other patients.

Although not uncommon this time of year, cases of norovirus infection and flu-like illnesses have increased in recent weeks.

Also known as the winter vomiting bug, it affects around two million people in Britain each year and is highly contagious.

Although not normally dangerous to otherwise healthy people, at risk groups – pregnant women, over 65s, and the very young – are advised to take precautions.

Speaking to Sky News, a spokesperson for the Health Protection Agency said: "we always say to people if you think it's the norovirus then please stay at home.

"we also urge people to have the flu vaccine, especially those over 65, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions."

The spokesperson added: "People can also call their GP, who after a possible home visit, may be able to issue an anti-viral, though this is dependent on each case."

People suffering with the norovirus or flu-like symptoms are advised to stay at home, rest and drink plenty of fluids.

They can also contact NHS Direct, or check symptoms online via the NHS Direct website.

The NHS is also offering online advice on how to stay healthy this winter.