HSE warns of increase in flu and Covid in the coming weeks
The rise in flu and Covid infection is very steep
The HSE is seeing an increase in people with respiratory illnesses attending emergency departments as 538 people with flu and 282 with Covid attended EDs this week, an increase from 312 (flu) and 144 (Covid) the previous week. While the health system is responding well, this increasing pressure requires all to play their part in using the right options for care, a statement from the HSE said.
Increasing community infection rates will lead to increased risk of outbreaks in hospitals, nursing homes and residential care facilities, potentially affecting the most vulnerable people. There are currently 30 outbreaks of Covid in hospitals and 24 in nursing homes, again an increase from last week.
"Acute hospitals are as prepared as can be to deal with the expected rise in attendances and admissions over the coming period. Today (Thursday, December 28th), there are 119 people on trolleys (87 in ED and 32 on a ward) compared to 443 on the same date last year. A further 124 patients are occupying surge beds compared to 375 on the same date last year. Meanwhile, yesterday there were 357 people in hospital ready for discharge and awaiting suitable non-acute care, compared to 475 people on the same date last year.
"Hospitals and community services around the country have put a sustained effort into ensuring hospitals are positioned for the traditional post-Christmas demand. However the rise in flu and COVID infection is very steep, and we would urge the public to attend the ED only for major health emergencies. Use all other options in non-emergency situations.
"People should consider using services such as your local pharmacy, and HSE.ie, before going to your GP or Emergency Department if you have respiratory symptoms. It is still not too late to get vaccinated: people who have not done so should get vaccinated at their GP or pharmacy. If you are unwell you should stay home until 48 hours after your major symptoms have resolved; avoid visiting people who are more vulnerable if you are unwell, especially avoid visiting hospitals or nursing homes if unwell. And we remind people about good infection control practice, including washing hands regularly and covering nose and mouth if you have coughs and sneezes., " the statement concluded
