HSE update on respiratory illness in acute hospitals over this weekend

The number of people in hospital with flu has been increasing rapidly, with 869 this morning compared to 530 people last Sunday, according to the HSE.  On Friday there were 742 people admitted which increased to 809 yesterday.

According to Bernard Gloster, HSE CEO, “We expect the number to reach around 900 in the coming week and are taking several measures to prepare for the potential surge in hospitalisations and intensive care admissions due to the flu.  The intensive care capacity is currently managing, with 323 available beds and 300 people in ICU, though not all of them are flu cases, but the flu adds pressure to the wider system.

“Between 20th and 27th of December, 34,400 people attended emergency departments, an increase on 27,800 for the same week last year.  8,500 patients were admitted compared to 7,800 for the same period last year yet we have fewer people on trolleys.  Record discharges over the course of this seven day period is keeping the system to some degree stable.”

My Gloster added, “The overall patient flow system is moving better than last year, and the healthcare system is focusing on every lever to keep the patient flow system moving and keep everyone safe.  To respond to the increase in demand, the healthcare system has ramped up measures in the community, including longer GP opening hours and increased out-of-hours services.” 

The HSE is also seeking the public’s assistance in curtailing the spread of flu by staying at home if you have symptoms.  Seek treatment from the pharmacy, your GP, GP Out of Hours, and injury units for non-life-threatening conditions such as fractures and burns.  Please cooperate with our staff should hospital visiting restrictions be in place due to flu and other circulating infections, and continue to practice infection prevention measures such as handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.

The HSE urges anyone with breathing difficulties or chest pain to attend the emergency department for treatment or call 112/999 in an emergency, and patients with non-life-threatening conditions should seek healthcare in the community.