'Super flu' Xmas threat

DEADLY Fears virulent strain could spread in festive period

- BY ANDREW E QUINN and CHLOE BARRETT

FEARS are growing that a so-called "super flu" could potentially destroy Christmas for thousands of families.

The Health Service Executive has recorded a 58% increase in flu hospitalisations, from 415 cases in the week beginning November 23 to 657 in the week beginning November 30.

There have been 13 confirmed flu deaths so far this season. Eight of the deceased were 65 or older, and the remaining five were under 65.

There has been an increase of four flu deaths from Week 48 to 49, according to the HSE.