Dr Colm Henry said this winter has seen record numbers at emergency departments as flu infections are likely to peak during Christmas week
Flu infections are likely to hit a peak during Christmas week(Image: Getty stock)
The HSE’s Chief Clinical Officer has warned that flu infections are likely to reach their peak during Christmas week. Dr Colm Henry noted that this winter has seen “record” numbers of patients at emergency departments and expressed gratitude to medical staff for their efforts in managing the surge.
He also advised anyone feeling unwell to refrain from visiting healthcare settings such as hospitals or nursing homes, in order to prevent the spread of flu and other winter illnesses. Current figures indicate that between 800 and 1,100 people will be hospitalised with flu on any given day at the height of the flu season, reports the Irish Mirror.
Dr Henry observed slight decreases in hospital admissions and emergency department presentations, suggesting that case numbers may be stabilising, but warned they could remain high for a prolonged period. Speaking to RTE, he said: “This certainly gives the impression that cases are beginning to stabilise.”
However, he emphasised that the HSE would maintain a “vigilant approach” to prevent hospital overcrowding. When questioned about the HSE’s preparedness for a surge this week, Dr Henry said: “We predicted from our modelling that we would reach a peak around Christmas week and the latest figures do suggest that we are reaching that peak.”
It comes as a doctor at Cork’s University Hospital reported a steady flow of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms. Dr Seán Underwood said: “A lot of people are really unwell with fever, severe aches, cough, and breathlessness.”
He added: “In vulnerable groups, it can indeed be life-threatening. 62 admissions this year to ICU and 17 deaths so far.”
Dr Underwood continued: “We’re very thankful for our GP colleagues, for instance, extending their opening hours. We’re very thankful for the public for increasing their levels of vaccination.”
However, he expressed concern about how hospitals would manage post-Christmas if there is a surge in cases.
Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.