The HSE has verified that over 1,000 patients are in hospitals with the flu, reports RTE.
Compared to 984 yesterday, 869 the day before, and 562 last Tuesday, 1,017 persons were reported to have the flu in hospitals on New Year’s Eve.
According to an HSE representative, hospitals nationwide are “extremely busy,” and GP practices and ambulance services are also affected, reports RTE.
A total of 5,150 people visited emergency rooms yesterday, 1,200 of whom were hospitalised for a variety of illnesses and crises, including those with winter respiratory infections, primarily the flu.
According to Bernard Gloster, CEO of the HSE, yesterday was the second-highest day for ED attendance over the Christmas season.
“This morning we had 322 people admitted and waiting on trolleys and they were being cared for in both hospital wards and in our EDs. All our staff and systems are responding and managing very well. Even though we have improved on recent years, there is no doubt that the system is under pressure. Our hospitals are operating infection prevention control measures, and we ask everyone to help and co-operate, including with any visitor restrictions that may be in place”, reports RTE.
People with flu symptoms should take care of themselves and follow any advice given by their doctor or chemist, according to the HSE.
According to Mr. Gloster, those who are having trouble breathing or feeling chest discomfort should visit an emergency department if they are unable to find another doctor, reports RTE.
The HSE website offers more guidance as well.
“A significant number of GP practices around the country are offering additional hours outside their normal surgery hours in the morning, evening and at weekends. The number of people using the GP out-of-hours service has increased by over 45% in some areas, compared to the same period last year. We would urge people who are feeling unwell to contact their GP,” Mr Gloster said, reports RTE.
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