AS Covid-19 cases continue to rise in the community and hospital attendances remain at a record high, health services in Donegal are urging the public to keep up their guard.

CEO of the Saolta Hospital Group Tony Canavan  said, “Our hospitals are continuing to deal with record numbers of attendances at emergency departments. All the while, the number of Covid infections in our communities is growing and resulting in greater numbers of hospitalisations. We must stay vigilant and keep up our guard against Covid if we are to protect the most vulnerable.

“While our vaccination programme has been a huge success, we must not forget the day to day practices that are continuing to keep us all safe.”

Mr Canavan urged people to be particularly vigilant if attending Letterkenny University Hospital for appointments or as a visitor.

People are asked to be mindful of others when attending LUH and to follow all guidelines.

“We all have a role to play and small actions can have a major impact. When visiting hospitals washing hands, keeping social distance and wearing a mask make a difference. If you have symptoms stay at home. This will not only keep our hospital safe but will benefit the wider community.

“I would also urge anyone aged 16 and over who hasn’t yet registered to get a free COVID-19 vaccine to do so by going to hse.ie. The vaccine is the most effective way to prevent serious disease and will help protect you and those close to you,” Tony Canavan added.

HSE Specialist in Public Health Medicine Dr Aidan Ryan added, “Covid-19 is circulating in our communities. It is important to continue to follow public health advice.  Increased community testing will help identify people who may be infected and are infectious.  These people may be unaware that they might be spreading the virus.”