The local health service is appealing to members of the public to adhere to health advice on swine flu as the number of cases in Wales increase.

The Hywel Dda health community - including the NHS Trust, Local Health Boards and Public Health Teams - are working closely with other public bodies in the three counties to ensure the area is equipped to deal with the pandemic.

As part of this, members of the public are being reminded about the importance of following hygiene measures and the process to follow if experiencing symptoms.

Local consultant in public health Dr. Lyn Harris said: "We would like to remind people that if they have flu-like symptoms, they should stay at home and check their symptoms on the http://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk">www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk website or phone the swine flu information line on 0800 1 513 513.

"If the symptoms are causing concern, or people are in an at risk group such as those with chronic conditions, children under five or pregnant women, they should 'phone NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or phone their GP who will assess their symptoms and provide appropriate advice.

"For those who need antiviral treatment, there are plenty of supplies available across Wales.

"People with flu-like symptoms should not go to their A&E, local GP or pharmacy, unless specifically advised to do so, in case they spread the virus to others. Such visits can cause undue pressure and potential delay for other patients who are in need of emergency services.

"GP surgeries in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, as in counties across Wales, are also responding to an increasing number of calls this week. In some cases, callers are seeking general advice that can be found on the NHS Direct Wales website or by calling the flu information line.

"The busy summer period also has potential to add additional pressure to these services and so we would urge members of the public to continue to be vigilant and to make use of the flu information line and NHS Direct Wales website, as well as to follow good hygiene advice."

Respiratory and hand hygiene is as follows:

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.

• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.

• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people.

• Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.

• Helping your children follow this advice

People are also being encouraged to identify flu friends - neighbours, friends or relatives who can help you if you get ill. For example, they could collect medicines, food and other supplies for you, so that you do not have to leave home if you are ill.