Strict visitor restrictions have been put in place with immediate effect at Cork University Hospital due to the number of patients who have presented with flu-like symptoms.

The hospital said it is banning all visitors with immediate effect in order to restrict the spread of the virus within the hospital. The only exceptions to the ban are the Intensive Treatment Unit and the Paediatric Ward.

"In relation to patients in the Intensive Treatment Unit and the Paediatric Ward and at the discretion of the Ward Manager only, it is necessary to restrict visitors to one person per patient," the hospital said.

"We regret any inconvenience caused to patients and relatives by these necessary measures, which are being taken in the interests of patient care."

All infection control measures are in place and every effort is being made to manage and contain the spread of the flu virus.

People with flu like symptoms are advised to contact their GP by phone in the first instance and avoid presenting at the Emergency Department at CUH.

We are asking people to think about all their care and treatment options and keep ED services for the patients who need them most. 

"For example, many patients with limb injuries can go to an Injury Unit in Bantry, Mallow or Gurranabraher. Others with a less serious illness can be treated by their GP or out of hours GP service where their GP can refer them to an Assessment Unit the following day if required," the CUH said.