UL Hospitals Group outline visiting restrictions

THE UL Hospitals Group has urged those who are planning to visit a relative or friend at University Hospital Limerick, to not do so if they experiencing flu-like symptoms.

The Group has recently highlighted the message as a response to “a high incidence of flu” in the Mid-West region. Visitor restrictions remain in force this Tuesday, with every precaution being taken in the context of the "current high incidence of flu in the Mid-West region", a spokesperson said.

“This is to ensure that we protect vulnerable patients from contracting the flu virus. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause," said a spokesperson for the group.

“The hospitals always apply strict infection control practices and in particular during peak periods of community acquired flu. If you intend on visiting, please help us by complying with infection control procedures, especially hand hygiene, while visiting the hospital.

The spokesperson added: “UL Hospitals Group has introduced a temporary restriction of one visitor per patient during the flu season and visitors are reminded that children under 14 are not allowed to visit.”

Nationally, the influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate per 100,000 of the population has increased steadily since January of this year. And the ILI consultation rate per 100,000 in the Mid-West was double the national rate for the week ending February 7.

This is being reflected in the hospital population and UHL confirmed that it currently has 19 confirmed and four suspected cases of influenza A.

"Every precaution is being taken in this busy flu season and management and staff are working with their community colleagues to monitor, treat and contain instances of flu-like illness," said the spokesperson.