Visiting restrictions imposed on Cork hospitals as respiratory illnesses surge

Visiting restrictions have been put in place with immediate effect in Cork hospitals, following a surge in respiratory viral illnesses, the HSE has announced.

The restrictions will affect Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Bantry General Hospital and Mallow General Hospital, the HSE South said, as well as University Hospital Kerry.

The HSE South said all acute hospitals within its region were currently experiencing a high number of patients with respiratory viral illnesses, including influenza, RSV and Covid-19.

“In order to reduce the spread of these illnesses in the healthcare setting the hospitals in Cork and Kerry are implementing visiting restrictions effective immediately,” the HSE said.

Hospital visiting times across Cork and Kerry will be restricted with immediate effect, with visitors only allowed between 6pm and 8pm.

The restrictions include two visitors per patient during these visiting hours and there will be a requirement for all visitors to wear face masks.

The HSE said those measures would be lifted “as soon as possible when clinical circumstances allow”, and added that certain exceptions might be possible if ward staff were contacted in advance of a visit.

Dr Andy Phillips, HSE South West regional executive officer, said patients with non-emergency conditions were being asked to seek assistance from other parts of the health service.

He said a range of care pathways was available to patients who did not need emergency care, including visiting a pharmacy for advice on common minor illnesses.

He further advised that those who urgently needed to see a GP outside of normal hours should contact South Doc on 0818 355999.