People in Galway and the west of Ireland are being urged to be vigilant in light of COVID-19 case increases, and high levels of hospital attendance.
Tony Canavan, CEO of the Saolta Hospital Group said that they are dealing with “record numbers” of people attending emergency departments.
“All the while, the number of COVID-19 infections in our communities is growing and resulting in greater numbers of hospitalisations.”
“We must stay vigilant and keep up our guard against COVID-19 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.”
The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation has warned that hospital overcrowding is climbing back to pre-pandemic levels. This at a time when hospitalisations for the disease remain high.
As of Thursday night there were 13 confirmed cases at UHG, and three at Portiuncula. Four of the patients at UHG are in the ICU.
Dr. Aidan Ryan, HSE Specialist in Public Health Medicine 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.”
Tony Canavan also asked that people be particularly vigilant of their own health if they are coming to visit someone in hospital.
Potential visitors to hospital are urged not to come if they have any symptoms of COVID, or have been a close contact.
