Authorities at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin say visiting restrictions will remain in place throughout the Easter weekend. This Bank Holiday you are asked to stay away from the unit as hospital chiefs battle to contain an outbreak of flu.
It has so far struck down 187 people at the hospital since February. The warning also covers St. Joseph's Hospital in Raheny and the Raheny Community Nursing Unit. Only absolutely essential visits will be allowed.
Doctors say flu can be contagious a day or more before the symptoms start and a person with flu can continue to spread the virus to others for up to a week after symptoms begin.
Visitors in general will not be allowed access to the hospital. This also applies to visits to A&E.
It has issued the following guidelines:
- Essential visiting may only take place between 6pm and 8pm, with only one visitor allowed per patient.
- Additional visitors will not be permitted into the hospital.
- Flu can be contagious from 1-2 days before the symptoms start, and a person with flu can continue to spread the virus to others for up to one week after symptoms begin. If you or anyone else residing with you has flu-like symptoms DO NOT visit the hospital other than for essential medical treatment.
- Children are not permitted to visit in any circumstances.
The hospital is continuing to advise against the risks of flu to patients generally and those with serious underlying medical conditions in particular.
