ARS/Algarve said that the Aljezur, Lagos, Lagoa, Portimão, Silves, Monchique, Vila do Bispo, Faro, Olhão, São Brás de Alportel and Tavira health centres will stay open on December 24 and 31.

With this measure, the authorities intend to respond, in an appropriate manner, "to a possible increase in the flow of users during this period of the year, particularly in cases of acute illness, such as influenza and respiratory infections".

The ARS/Algarve recommends to the population that if they feel the first symptoms of flu - such as coughing, headaches, fever, malaise and muscular pains - they should first contact the SNS contact centre (808 24 24 24).