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Portiuncula University Hospital Concerned About Rising RSV Cases

Thursday, 30 November 2023 16:12

Portiuncula University Hospital is concerned for its patients who may be at risk

Portiuncula University Hospital is asking the public to not visit patients at the hospital if they are feeling unwell. 

The facility says it is currently treating patients, including infants, who are very sick with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

James Keane, Hospital Manager at PUH said, “We are asking the public to be mindful of the safety of our vulnerable patients and do not visit the hospital if you have a cough, cold, temperature, runny nose or sneezing. Limited visiting is in place in the Maternity Ward to protect our newborns and younger babies who are at particular risk from RSV. Children should not visit the Maternity Ward.”

RSV is a highly contagious respiratory disease and is the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in very young children. Bronchiolitis may lead to breathing and feeding difficulties and can result in hospitalisation.

RSV can also be serious and life-threatening for older adults, individuals with weak immune systems, and children who are premature or have chronic heart and lung disease.

Anyone with symptoms of RSV is advised to stay away from others if you feel unwell, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, bin used tissues and wash your hands after and regularly throughout the day. Please make sure your child’s vaccines or immunisations are up to date, including the annual free nasal flu vaccine from your local GP or pharmacy.

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