Portiuncula hospital updates visiting advice due to rise in RSV virus cases

Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe has issued updated visiting advice for the public, urging those who are feeling unwell not to visit due to the level of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) currently circulating in communities.

In its statement today (Thursday), the hospital also said that limitations on visiting were in place in its maternity ward, and that children should not visit the maternity ward.

Portiuncula is currently treating patients, including infants, who are "very sick" with RSV.

"We are asking the public to be mindful of the safety of our vulnerable patients and do not visit the hospital if you have a cough, cold, temperature, runny nose or sneezing," said Portiuncula hospital manager James Keane.

"Limited visiting is in place in the maternity ward to protect our newborns and younger babies who are at particular risk from RSV. Children should not visit the maternity ward," he added.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a highly contagious respiratory disease and is the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in very young children. Bronchiolitis may lead to breathing and feeding difficulties and can result in hospitalisation.

RSV can also be serious and life-threatening for older adults, individuals with weak immune systems, and children who are premature or have chronic heart and lung disease.

Anyone with symptoms of RSV is advised to stay away from others if you feel unwell, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, bin used tissues and wash your hands after and regularly throughout the day.

The hospital also encouraged people to make sure their child's vaccines or immunisations are up to date, including the annual free nasal flu vaccine from their local GP or pharmacy.