Caution urged visiting older relatives with Winter bugs going around

People in Galway are being urged to exercise caution visiting vulnerable relatives, with an increase in flu and winter viruses going around.

The HSE’s Public Health West team is encouraging people not to visit hospitals or nursing homes if they have any respiratory symptoms.

“Those who are in settings such as hospitals or long term care facilities are at a higher risk of serious illness if they contract any virus,” a statement to Galway Daily said.

“It is important if you are experiencing respiratory symptoms such as a cough, sneezing, sore throat, breathlessness; that you avoid attending these settings.”

If visiting someone who is vulnerable:

–       Ensure you do not have respiratory symptoms

–       Wear a face mask

–       Wash or sanitise your hands regularly

–       Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces regularly

Take these extra actions to avoid respiratory infection:

–       Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes

–       Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow

–       Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccine if eligible

–       Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, and before eating

–       Wear a face mask in crowded areas

–       Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces regularly

–       Consider meeting outdoors in the fresh air as there is greater risk of infection in enclosed places

 What to do if you have symptoms:

–       Stay at home when you are sick

–       Stay away from those who are vulnerable

–       Contact your GP if you need advice on how to manage your symptoms

For more advice see: https://www2.hse.ie/under-the-weather/.