There has been a dramatic increase in the number of confirmed cases of influenza, Covid-19 and respiratory illness RSV in Kerry in the lead up to Christmas.
University Hospital Kerry General Manager, Mary Fitzgerald, said they are preparing for a particularly busy period as cases are on the rise.
“We know from previous years, that the rise in respiratory illnesses puts additional pressure on our emergency departments,” she said.
“Our department cares for those who are seriously ill or injured so please consider alternative care pathways before you visit,” she pleaded.
The HSE South West confirmed an increase in ‘flu, Covid-19 and RSV circulating in the community, with a doubling of cases noted over a one-week period.
“We are also seeing that Mercy University Hospital, Cork University Hospital and University Hospital Kerry are experiencing significant increases in people presenting with COVID-19, Influenza and RSV,” a spokesperson said.
The impact of ‘flu circulating in the community has a direct impact on the capacity of health services, both in hospitals and in primary and community care settings.
HSE South West Regional Executive Officer, Dr Andy Phillips, remarked: “This winter season, influenza hospitalisations are mainly impacting older adults, young children and those with underlying conditions.
“We need to ensure we look after those most vulnerable in our communities. I am asking those who are eligible for free winter vaccines, to please avail of your vaccinations immediately”.
Nationally this Sunday morning, there were up to 900 people hospitalised with influenza this Sunday, with 155 admissions due to RSV and several others due to Covid-19.
Health officials expect the illness levels to reach a peak in early January when schools reopen and people return to work.
If there continues to be a surge in respiratory cases it is very likely to lead to a suspension of non-essential surgical procedures.
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