The hospital has also imposed a limit of two visitors per patient
Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Photo: Stock Image.
Mayo University Hospital has asked anyone with flu-like symptoms not to visit the hospital as cases rise in the community.
The hospital is also enforcing a strict limit of two visitors per patient, unless a pre-approved exception is granted on compassionate grounds.
In a statement released earlier today, the hospital urged anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, fever, runny or blocked nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, aches and pains, or gastrointestinal issues, to refrain from visiting the hospital.
For those who must visit MUH, the hospital has asked that precautions be taken to minimise the risk of catching or spreading an infection.
Visitors are advised to wear a mask, available at the reception desk, to protect themselves, patients, and staff.
Good cough and sneeze etiquette should be observed by covering the mouth and nose, and visitors are asked not to use patients’ toilets on wards or en-suites.
Hands should be cleaned regularly with alcohol hand gel.
“These measures are vital to avoid spreading the virus to patients, visitors and staff and the hospital would like to thank the public for their co-operation at this time,” the statement read.
People are being advised to check the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats and keeping well.
Anyone who is not up to date with their flu vaccine is also being urged to do so, as vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness from flu.
Find your nearest clinic on the HSE website: www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-vaccine/
This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.