The Health Service Executive has urged people to avoid hospitals and emergency departments where possible as flu hospitalisations soar.
As of today, December 27th, there are 742 people hospitalised with the flu across Ireland.
While the Health Service Executive (HSE) had expected and planned for a surge in hospitalisations at this time, the numbers so far are at the upper end of what they had predicted, a spokesperson said.
“The healthcare system and in particular our acute hospitals have been working well over the Christmas period, with senior clinical staff on site ensuring patients are discharged when possible, and ensuring efficient patient flow through Emergency Departments,” HSE CEO Bernard Gloster said.
“We expect pressure to continue over the coming days and we would urge the public to use alternative healthcare services for treatment such as GP, GP Out of Hours, injury units and pharmacies when appropriate.
“But if patients are very sick and in an emergency situation, they should of course come to their nearest Emergency Department.”
Seriously ill patients
Emergency Departments are always available to treat seriously ill patients and the sickest patients are seen first.
People with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen.
Hospital visiting restrictions are in place due to circulating infections and for infection prevention and control purposes - which can be found on the HSE website.
From today, additional Daytime GP expanded clinics are available from some practices and patients should check if their GP is participating in this arrangement.
Additional supports for GP OOH services are also being provided.
Flu and Covid-19 vaccinations are still available in GPs and pharmacies around Ireland.
Hospital ward, © PA Wire/PA Images
