CASES of so-called "Aussie flu" have been recorded in Glasgow, according to reports.

Latest figures show the number of people suffering from flu in Scotland has more than doubled compared to the same time last year, with about half of NHS boards reporting significant ward pressure as a result.

One of the strains circulating this year - H3N2 - was responsible for Australia's worst flu outbreak in nearly a decade last year. Elderly people are said to be more susceptible to the strain, which is not new and was around last winter.

According to the flusurvey website, which relies on members of the public to report symptoms, only three areas of the UK have not experienced any cases - Dorchester, Dartford, and the City of London.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde could not say how many cases have involved H3N2 as data for individual strains is not recorded.

Any strain of flu can be dangerous for people who are vulnerable to it including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions..

In general, current flu vaccines tend to work better against influenza B and influenza A/H1N1 viruses than H3N2, according to US experts at the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Experience from last winter suggests the elderly are a high risk group for H3N2.

The First Minister and Health Secretary have apologised to patients who have faced delays for treatment as a result of winter strain on the health service.

Nicola Sturgeon said NHS Scotland was dealing with ''exceptional'' pressures but was coping despite difficult circumstances.

Health Secretary Shona Robison defended the Scottish Government's flu vaccination programme after ministers were accused of failing to act on warnings.