Visiting restricted at Mullingar Hospital

Vistors are being advised to only attend Mullingar Hospital “if absolutely necessary” in order to limit the spread of flu.

A public notice issued this morning (Friday January 3) reports that the Midlands Regional Hospital in Mullingar is “extremely busy with increased incidences of flu and respiratory illness”.

In order to limit the spread of infection, visitors are advised to only attend the hospital if absolutely necessary and to not bring children if at all possible.

The hospital management apologises for the inconvenience to patients and their families and thanks the public for their cooperation at this time.

Management have asked that, where possible, patients with flu-like illness/ cold symptoms telephone their GP or pharmacist in the first instance to seek the best advice, rather than presenting at the hospital.

In addition, people due to attend the hospital for an outpatient clinic appointment during the current week who may have symptoms of flu are advised to check with the hospital before attending, as an appointment may need to be rescheduled in order to prevent the further spread of flu to both patients and staff.

People in high-risk groups are again encouraged (if they have not already done so) to avail of the flu vaccine from their GP or pharmacist.

High-risk groups are:

* All those aged 65 years and older

* People including children with chronic illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, chronic neurological disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and diabetes

* Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment and all cancer patients

* All pregnant women. The vaccine can be given safely at any stage of pregnancy.

* Those with morbid obesity ie Body Mass Index ≥ 40

* Residents of nursing homes, old people's homes and other long stay facilities

* Healthcare workers and carers of those in at-risk groups

Additional information on the symptoms and how to care for flu is available on www2.hse.ie/under-the-weather.