'The system is under pressure' - Hospitals enforce visitor restrictions due to flu surge

A number of hospitals across the country have implemented visitor restrictions due to a surge in flu cases.

On New Year's Eve, a total of 1,017 people were recorded in hospital with the flu. There has been a steady increase in the number of flu cases in recent days with 984 on Monday and 869 on Sunday - a noteworthy comparison to the figures recorded on Christmas Eve of 562.

In an update, the head of the HSE Bernard Gloster confirmed that 62 of the 1,017 patients hospitalised are being treated in ICU, with 25 patients on ventilators. 

The number of people in hospital with flu has been increasing daily, with 1,017 this morning as pressure continues on hospitals.

CEO @BernardGloster said "Our hospitals remain under pressure and we urge the public not to visit people in hospital or care settings if you have… pic.twitter.com/yIeZDF9mmo

— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) December 31, 2024

Many of those being treated in ICU are older people and young children who are being treated for RSV which has serious implications for babies and small children. 

The numbers of flu cases are expected to rise again when schools reopen and many people return to work after Christmas.

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Gloster said: "All our staff and systems are responding and managing very well and even though we have improved on recent years, there is no doubt that the system is under pressure"

He added: "Our hospitals are operating infection prevention control measures and we ask everyone to help and co-operate, including with any visitor restrictions that may be in place.

"We know that can be difficult for families and loved ones, especially at this time of year, but we must protect our patients and prevent the spread of infections in hospitals and other healthcare settings.”

The HSE has urged people to not visit a hospital if they have symptoms of a cold, flu, pr Covid-19. Anyone who may be visiting hospitals are advised to wear face masks and be mindful of washing hands upon entering and leaving.

Due to the high numbers, the University of Limerick hospital group has implemented restrictions at all six hospitals across the midwest.

Further restrictions have also been put in place at Naas General Hospital, Tipperary University Hospital, Regional Hospital Mullingar and at the Midlands Regional Hospitals in Tullamore and Portlaoise. 

In addition to this, University Hospital Kerry, Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Bantry General Hospital and Mallow General Hospital also have visitor restrictions.

Mask mandates have also been enforced in UHK and CUH.