Updated visitor arrangements at Wexford General Hospital from today

Due to the continued increase in flu cases in the community and in Wexford General Hospital, visitor restrictions are now in place across the hospital.

One visitor per patient will be allowed during visiting times and all visitors are asked to wear surgical masks, which will be provided at the hospital. Visting times at the hospital will be strictly enforced.

We understand the importance of family support during a patient's stay. Therefore, visiting on compassionate grounds and in particular circumstances to support patients can be arranged directly through the nurse in charge on the respective ward.

Please do not visit the hospital if you have any respiratory symptoms, such as:

cough;

• sore throat
• fever
• runny or blocked nose
• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• aches and pains
• or gastrointestinal symptoms

If you must attend the hospital, minimise your risk of catching or spreading an infection by ensuring the following:

• If you have any symptoms you should not come to visit until all symptoms are fully resolved for at least 48 hours;
• Masks are available at reception, please wear a mask to assist in the protection of visitors, staff and patients.
• Practice good cough and sneeze etiquette by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
• Please do not use patient toilets on the wards or en-suites;
• Clean your hands regularly with alcohol hand gel.

These measures are vital to avoid spreading the virus to patients, visitors and staff and the hospital would like to thank the public for their co-operation and understanding at this time.

People should check the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats and keeping well. Further information can be found at www.hse.ie/flu.

Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious illness from flu. The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible, both the public and healthcare staff. The vaccines can stop infection, severe illness and prevent transmission to vulnerable people. Find your nearest clinic here: https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-vaccine/