Strict visitor restrictions at Roscommon hospital

Visiting to inpatient wards at Roscommon University Hospital is being limited to compassionate grounds only.

The hospital today said it is treating a high number of patients with flu and is asking the public to help to control the spread of illness within the hospital by co-operating with visiting restrictions and infection control measures which have been introduced.

All inpatient wards in RUH are impacted by flu cases and as a result visiting is limited to compassionate grounds only at this time. In exceptional circumstances (where patients are critically ill or near the end of their life) visiting is possible, but this must be arranged in advance with the ward manager. Please phone the hospital in advance of planning a visit.

A spokesperson said: "We regret the impact these restrictions will have on patients and their families, especially at this time of year but we need to do everything we can to control the spread of infection. These restrictions are temporary and subject to change based on daily activity levels so please check HSE.ie for further information."

Visitors are advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital and there will be a requirement for all visitors to wear face masks.

As a necessary infection control measure, everyone attending the Roscommon Injury Unit must wear a face mask for the duration of their stay and these are widely available throughout the unit.

The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID as soon as possible, both the public and health care staff. The vaccines can stop infection, severe illness and prevent transmission to vulnerable people. Visit hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist to get a vaccine.