With the early months of winter approaching the Health Ministry is calling on people to take precautions to better protect their family members from contracting the flu.

Director Public Health Dr Greg Rafai said they are expecting an initial high number of people to be affected by seasonal influenza and with the threat of the Influenza A H1N1, he said people should be careful during this time.

Dr Rafai said people should continue to follow their advice, which is to wash your hands frequently with soap and avoid touching your face especially after you cough or sneeze.

Avoid contact with sick people, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and seek medical attention if you think your condition is not improving.

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry has confirmed that tests on the two suspected cases of Influenza A H1N1 reported in the Western Division both returned negative, clearing the two of suffering from the diseases.

The two travelers had typical respiratory symptoms for influenza like illness.

Dr Rafai is urging travelers returning from affected areas to monitor their health for seven days upon arrival and report immediately to health authorities if they develop any symptoms of fever accompanied by cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, fatigue and in some cases vomiting and diarrhoea.