ALMOST 400 cases of flu have been recorded in Limerick and the Mid West this week, with health advice being for people to stay out of circulation if they feel unwell.
Since Sunday last (December 29), at least 396 flu cases have been recorded in the Mid West region according to official Public Heath figures – the highest weekly incidence this season.
The figures have gone up from just 80 on December 8 last and many GPs are extending their surgery hours to try to deal with the surge.
Public Health HSE Mid West is appealing to people to stay at home if they are feeling unwell, particularly those returning to work and children returning to school.
While the flu had been circulating in the community since September, the first major spike did not occur until mid-December, the HSE said, explaining that increased social activity over the Christmas period has contributed to a further surge in flu cases.
“Flu is likely to continue circulating at high levels in the community for a number of weeks. To prevent further spread, we are appealing to people to stay at home if they are feeling unwell,” a HSE spokesman said.
“While most children who catch flu will have mild symptoms, it can cause serious illness in some children. If your child is feeling unwell, please make sure they stay at home until they are symptom-free for two days, or if they are feeling better.
“Returning to work with symptoms of a respiratory illness (e.g. flu, Covid-19, RSV) can result in colleagues also becoming unwell.”
Healthcare workers, at-risk individuals (pregnant people, older persons, those with weak immune systems, and those aged 60 and older) and children aged two to 17 can still avail of free flu vaccines, which are available from GPs and participating pharmacies.
“We urge people across the region to assist in curtailing the spread of flu by staying at home if you have symptoms. People should adhere to simple coughing and sneezing etiquette, such as using a tissue or coughing/sneezing into your elbow, and not your hands. Handwashing, with warm water and soap, is effective at preventing possible spread of infection,” the spokesman said.
The emergency department at University Hospital Limerick is currently particularly busy due to increased levels of flu hospitalisations.
Intending patients are urged to consider all available healthcare options, including local pharmacies, family doctors, or the ShannonDoc out-of-hours GP service on 0818 123 500, and Limerick Doc on 087 755 1570.
Visiting restrictions are in place in hospitals and visitors are asked not to visit if they have any symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea, a cough, cold or a temperature.
