Restrictions in place at hospital as HSE confirms rising numbers of Covid-19

The HSE has confirmed that the number of patients in ICU with a Covid-19 infection increased slightly during July, but overall remains low, with restrictions in place in a hospital due to a Covid-19 outbreak there.

The HSE confirmed that there were 10 patients in ICU with Covid-19, compared to three patients on 1 July.

But it said that, as in previous waves, if Covid-19 case numbers increase substantially, some level of increased hospital and ICU admissions is likely to follow.

St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny has confirmed that it is dealing with an outbreak of Covid-19 and has temporarily suspended visiting, except for the maternity unit and in exceptional circumstances.

The HSE confirmed that due to increased infection control measures required at this time for Covid 19, St. Luke’s General Hospital will be temporarily suspending hospital visiting effective immediately except for those visiting the maternity unit and exceptional circumstances as determined by each ward manager. 

A spokesperson said: "COVID-19 is still circulating in our community and is causing hospital admissions. It’s important we all continue to take simple actions like handwashing and covering your cough that will protect our families and communities, particularly those at the greatest risk of severe illness". 

The HSE outlined unless you are in a specific risk group or setting, you will not be tested for COVID-19 unless a GP or healthcare worker advises you to have one. 

"However, if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 and feel unwell, you should stay at home until 48 hours after your symptoms are mostly or fully gone, stay away from work and avoid crowded indoor spaces," they advise. 

The HSE said that vaccination remains the best protection against severe complications from COVID-19 infection as well as other infections like flu.