The increased calls to NHS 111, GP practices, and the region’s ambulance service for simple flu-like symptoms have been ongoing since the end of December.
This has made it difficult for some patients who need urgent care to get through.
With the current wave of flu cases expected to reach its peak in the coming days, residents in the region are being urged to practise effective self-care.
Flu-like symptoms, including headaches, fevers, and sore throats, can be easily managed at home by resting, staying hydrated, and using common medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Connie Timmins, lead nurse for infection prevention and control at the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Illnesses such as flu, along with coughs, colds and sore throats, are common at this time of year, and we’re currently seeing that play out across our region.
“While it’s important for people not to ignore their symptoms, the best remedies are often those that take place in the home, such as staying in bed, drinking lots of water and regularly taking paracetamol.”
Ms Timmins emphasised that seeking help for minor symptoms often prevents frontline teams from assisting those most in need.
She advised people who begin to feel unwell with flu-like symptoms or those that could be norovirus to avoid going out and to see in the new year at home.
Pharmacies in the region, now open as usual following the Christmas bank holidays, can provide help and support for most minor seasonal conditions.
They can also prescribe medication for common illnesses such as sinusitis, urine infections, and shingles, meaning people with these conditions no longer need to make an appointment with their GP.
However, people who find themselves in genuine need of emergency care, such as those with chest pains, significant bleeding, or broken bones, should not delay in visiting the closest hospital emergency department or calling an ambulance via 999.
As antibiotics are ineffective against the flu, people seeking healthcare advice should avoid calling their GP practice and instead make use of the NHS 111 online website.