by Michael Lockhart
HEALTH services in Donegal are preparing for further significant increases in influenza and respiratory illness in the coming days and weeks.
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 Health Manager for Donegal, Dermot Monaghan is concerned about rising cases of respiratory illness in the community which will put local health services under significant strain over the Christmas period.
“In the last week, over 600 people nationally were hospitalised due to Covid, flu and RSV. When this is added to the usual demand placed on the health service, it brings significant pressure on the public and healthcare staff.
“We are asking our local communities across Donegal to please consider all healthcare options if you or your family become unwell. Depending on your illness, there are a number of treatment options open to you including out-of-hours GP and pharmacies. Being prepared and knowing where to go will mean that you will get treated more quickly and will ease pressures on the healthcare system.”
“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend the Emergency Department where they will be prioritised. Patients who attend the ED for routine and non-urgent treatment may experience long waiting times as we treat our sickest patients first.”
Dr Áine McNamara, HSE West North west Director of Public Health, said a combined total of almost 2,000 cases of Covid-19, RSV and influenza have been notified nationally in the past week. Over the same week, emergency departments across the country have experienced significant increases in people presenting to ED with Covid-19, Influenza and RSV.
She said she expects this trend to continue, but urged there is still time for people to get vaccinated.
“Every eligible person across the Donegal region should get their winter vaccines ahead of Christmas to protect themselves, and their family and friends from the worst impacts of flu and Covid-19.
“It is really important that we protect vulnerable people from the risk of infection so please do not family members in a hospital, nursing home or any healthcare setting if you are unwell.
“I know it’s difficult at this time of year as we all want to visit our loved ones, but if you have any symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, coughs or colds I would urge you to postpone your visit until 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared.”
NoWDOC GP Out of Hours Service which cover Donegal and South Leitrim and can be contacted on 0818 400 911.
The opening hours over the festive season are:
Monday, December 23, 6pm- 8am; Tuesday, December 24, from 6pm; Wednesday, December 25, open all day; Thursday, December 26, open all day, Friday, December 27, until 8am, open again at 6pm; Saturday, December 28 and Sunday, December 29, open all day; Monday, December 30, 6pm to 8am; Tuesday, December 31, from 6pm, Wednesday, January 1, open all day; Thursday, January 2, 8am to 6pm; Friday, January 3, from 6pm; Saturday, January 4, open all day.
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