Cork's Mercy Hospital introduces visitor restrictions and asks patients to seek treatment elsewhere
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Cork's Mercy University Hospital (MUH) has introduced visiting restrictions and renewed its appeal to members of the public to seek treatment elsewhere.
It comes as high numbers of patients are presenting with the flu in the Emergency Department.
"Visiting restrictions have been introduced at Mercy University Hospital (MUH) following a spike in the number of patients presenting at the hospital with flu," said a hospital spokesperson this morning.
"Visiting will be allowed on compassionate grounds under prior arrangement with the hospital."
Patients with less urgent complaints are advised to contact their GPs in the first instance, or to avail of services at the Mercy Local Injury Unit, St Mary’s Health Campus in Gurranabraher, which is open from 8am to 6pm.
"The public are reminded that South Doc is also an option for those seeking medical attention outside of working hours."
In addition to the Mercy Local Injury Unit, the Local Injury Unit at Bantry General Hospital operates between 8am and 7.30pm and the Local Injury Unit in Mallow General Hospital is open from 8am to 8pm.
"MUH is currently experiencing high demand for its ED services due to a marked increase in the attendances of acutely ill patients and a surge in Covid-19, flu and winter vomiting presentations This is in addition to caring for frail older persons with complex needs," the spokesperson said.
The ED remains open 24/7 however, it is regrettable that patients are and will continue to experience delays, the statement reads.
"Patient care is a priority at MUH and hospital management would like to stress that the clinical needs of all patients in the Emergency Department are being cared for."