Portiuncula University Hospital issues visiting update in light of rising RSV cases

Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH) is asking the public to not visit patients at the hospital if they are feeling unwell. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is circulating in our communities and the hospital is currently treating patients, including infants, who are very sick with 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 (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) 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.