Health services in Galway are preparing for further significant increases in influenza and respiratory illness in the coming days and weeks. The impact of flu circulating in the community has a direct impact on the capacity of health services, both in hospitals and in primary and community care settings.
HSE Health Manager for Galway and Roscommon, Ann Cosgrove, is concerned about rising cases of respiratory illness in the community which will put local health services under significant strain over the Christmas period.
“In the last week, over 600 people nationally were hospitalised due to COVID, flu and RSV. When this is added to the usual demand placed on the health service, it brings significant pressure on the public and healthcare staff," she said.
“We are asking our local communities across Galway and Roscommon to please consider all healthcare options if you or your family become unwell. Depending on your illness, there are a number of treatment options open to you including out-of-hours GP and pharmacies. Being prepared and knowing where to go will mean that you will get treated more quickly and will ease pressures on the healthcare system," added Ms Cosgrove.
“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend the Emergency Department where they will be prioritised. Patients who attend the ED for routine and non-urgent treatment may experience long waiting times as we treat our sickest patients first.
"I also want to remind the public that Roscommon Injury Unit is open every day of the year, including Christmas Day and can treat a wide range of breaks, sprains burns and minor injuries.”
Dr Áine Mc Namara, HSE West North West Director of Public Health said a combined total of almost 2,000 cases of COVID-19, RSV and influenza have been notified nationally in the past week.
"Over the same week, Emergency Departments across the country have experienced significant increases in people presenting to ED with COVID-19, Influenza and RSV.
“We expect this trend to continue, however there is still time to get a vaccine. Every eligible person across the Galway and Roscommon region should get their winter vaccines ahead of Christmas to protect themselves, and their family and friends from the worst impacts of flu and COVID-19.
Dr Mc Namara concluded, “It is really important that we protect vulnerable people from the risk of infection so please do not visit a family member in a hospital, nursing home or any healthcare setting if you are unwell. I know it’s difficult at this time of year as we all want to visit our loved ones, but if you have any symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, coughs or colds I would urge you to postpone your visit until 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared.”
Be prepared - Know where to go
Check the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throatsVisit your local pharmacy for expert advice
Contact your family doctor as necessary.
The GP out-of-hours service is a high-quality clinical service for urgent care. You must make an appointment in advance.
Westdoc covers Galway and Roscommon for out of hours GP services on 0818 360 000, opening hours are available here
Emergency Departments treat seriously ill patients. Those with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen in emergency departments.
Roscommon Injury Unit is open every day over Christmas from 8am to 8pm and treats patients over 5 years old. Call 090 662 6972
Get Vaccinated To see what vaccines are recommended for you: visit hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist.
