Mercy University Hospital restricts visits due to infection control concerns

The Mercy University Hospital in Cork city is closed to visitors to limit the risk of infection, effective immediately, the hospital said in a statement this afternoon.

A spokesperson for the hospital said the closure was due to “infection prevention and control reasons” and will be reviewed in 48 hours.

"Due to a number of viruses currently circulating in the community, the hospital is implementing this precautionary measure to help protect both patients and staff," they said.

“All requests for visiting on compassionate grounds will be facilitated — please contact the ward manager to discuss directly. Please follow the guidance of staff regarding hand hygiene and the use of PPE.

The spokesperson added: “Please do not visit the hospital if you have a cough, vomiting, or diarrhoea, or feel unwell in any way. This is to protect inpatients and staff and limit the spread of infection.”