Concern is rising among health service chiefs in Donegal over the surge in flu cases and respiratory illnesses in the lead-up to Christmas.
Local health services have reported being under increased pressure with flu, RSV and Covid-19 circulating in communities.
HSE Health Manager for Donegal, Dermot Monaghan said health services, both in hospitals and in primary and community care settings are preparing for further significant increases in patients.
Dermot said, “In the last week, over 600 people nationally were hospitalised due to COVID, flu and RSV. When this is added to the usual demand placed on the health service, it brings significant pressure on the public and healthcare staff.
“We are asking our local communities across Donegal to please consider all healthcare options if you or your family become unwell. Depending on your illness, there are a number of treatment options open to you including out-of-hours GP and pharmacies. Being prepared and knowing where to go will mean that you will get treated more quickly and will ease pressures on the healthcare system.”
“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend the Emergency Department where they will be prioritised. Patients who attend the ED for routine and non-urgent treatment may experience long waiting times as we treat our sickest patients first.”
Dr Áine Mc Namara, HSE West North West Director of Public Health said; “A combined total of almost 2,000 cases of COVID-19, RSV and influenza have been notified nationally in the past week. Over the same week, Emergency Departments across the country have experienced significant increases in people presenting to ED with COVID-19, Influenza and RSV.
“We expect this trend to continue, however there is still time to get a vaccine. Every eligible person across the Donegal region should get their winter vaccines ahead of Christmas to protect themselves, and their family and friends from the worst impacts of flu and COVID-19.
Dr Mc Namara concluded, “It is really important that we protect vulnerable people from the risk of infection so please do not family members in a hospital, nursing home or any healthcare setting if you are unwell. I know it’s difficult at this time of year as we all want to visit our loved ones, but if you have any symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, coughs or colds I would urge you to postpone your visit until 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared.”
Check the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats.
NoWDOC GP Out of Hours Service which covers Co. Donegal and South Leitrim and can be contacted on 0818 400 911.
To see what vaccines are recommended for you: visit hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist.
