Cork University Hospital announces visitor restrictions amid high flu cases

Visitor restrictions are in place at Cork University Hospital to help limit the spread of influenza, as latest figures show nearly 100 hospitalisations in Cork and Kerry.

Latest flu data, published on Thursday by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC), shows 294 cases of influenza in Cork and Kerry in the first week of this year, as well as 92 hospitalisations. This is down from 382 and 103 the last week of December, but up from 281 and 69 the week before that.

HSE South West has advised the public that the CUH restrictions include one visitor per patient, per day, for a maximum of 15 minutes and that visitors must wear surgical masks and use hand sanitiser (provided at the entrance to the hospital).

Additionally, there is no visiting outside of visiting times (2pm to 4pm or 6pm to 8pm) and as always, the public are reminded not to visit if feeling unwell — for example, with a temperature, runny nose, cough, or any diarrhoea or vomiting.

These measures will remain in place for as long as clinically necessary, the HSE said, adding that compassionate exceptions can be arranged in advance by contacting the relevant ward.

Jennifer Kearney, CUH CEO said: “Unfortunately, flu rates in the community remain high, and we must continue visitor restrictions at CUH to protect our patients. We are very grateful for the public’s continued cooperation and understanding as it makes a real difference to patient safety.”

Ms Kearney also encouraged people to take proactive steps: “If you haven’t yet received your flu vaccine, it’s not too late. We are still seeing patients hospitalised with influenza and presenting at our emergency department. Getting vaccinated now offers important protection for you and for those around you.”