people heading off on holiday are being urged to take extra care with hygiene as a precaution against swine flu.

And anyone with flu or swine flu-like symptoms should not travel, Airedale and Bradford public health chiefs have warned.

Dr Anita Sims, the district’s public health director, said: “Wherever you go on holiday, you should always take the same sensible precautions that you do when at home. It is important that you check in advance where you can get medical advice if you or your family feel unwell on holiday.

“It may be a good idea to take the phone number of your local GP with you if you are travelling in this country.

“You should also make sure you have flu remedies from your local chemist, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Remember that children should not take aspirin.

“Most people with swine flu will start to feel better after a few days. The most important thing you should do if you feel unwell is to stay at home — then rest, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter flu remedies to relieve your symptoms.”

She added: “It sounds really simple but one of the most important precautions to take when travelling is to take extra care with good hygiene to limit the spread of infection.

“Use a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, dispose of tissues in a bin and wash hands properly with soap and water to kill germs.”

In this country anyone diagnosed as having swine flu and needing anti-virals will be given an authorisation number and their ‘flu friend’ will be directed to the nearest collection point.

Anybody travelling in Europe should ensure they have their free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitling them to any necessary medical treatment.

EHIC application forms can be obtained from post offices, by phoning 0845 606 2030 or from the nhs.uk website.