HSE report substantial increases in the number of respiratory illnesses and hospitalisations

Wed, 10 Jan, 2024 - 20:45

Michael Bolton

The HSE has described the rise of respiratory illnesses as 'substantial', as pressure increases on hospitals across the country.

In the first week of 2024, there has been 1,628 cases of the flu, with 414 people hospitalised. It is expected influenza activity will continue to rise towards a peak in the coming weeks.

This is the highest number of influenza cases and hospitalisations so far this winter season.

There was also 1,200 cases of COVID-19, with 459 people hospitalised. This is the highest amount COVID-19 cases seen since August 2023.

The number of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases increased slightly to over 465 cases, with 147 people in hospital. This slight increase is usual in early January, following socialisation over the Christmas period and the return to school/child care

The HSE is warning people who feel unwell to stay at home until 48 hours after your symptoms are mostly or fully gone. Avoiding contact with other people is also advised, especially those who are vunerable to Covid-19.

Those who are aged 65 or older, pregnant, or have a medical condition, are urged to seek medical advice if their condition has not improved after seven days.