St Luke's implements visitor restrictions due to rise in respiratory illnesses

St Luke’s General Hospital, Carlow Kilkenny began implementing visitor restrictions across the hospital today, to reduce the spread of flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

The hospital is experiencing a high number of people presenting with respiratory viral illness.

Only one visitor per patient is permitted during visiting hours of 6pm to 8pm, unless otherwise authorised by the ward manager. Designated visitors will be asked to wear a mask while in wards. These measures will be kept under review.

The hospital is also asking people with non-emergency conditions to consider alternative care options such as GPs, pharmacies, and out of hours GP services.

These measures are vital to avoid spreading viruses among the patients, visitors and staff and the hospital would like to thank the public for their co-operation and understanding at this time.

Please do not visit the hospital if you have any respiratory symptoms, such as: Cough; Sore throat; Runny or blocked nose; Shortness of breath; Fatigue; Aches and pains; Or gastrointestinal symptoms.

People should check the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats and keeping well. Further information can be found at www.hse.ie/flu.

Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious illness from flu. The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible, both the public and healthcare staff.

The vaccines can stop infection, severe illness and prevent transmission to vulnerable people. Find your nearest clinic here: https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-vaccine/