HSE

HSE Warns of Winter Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Across Ireland

Flu and Covid cases on the rise! HSE issues urgent warnings and advice for dealing with the winter surge of respiratory illnesses in Ireland.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) is sounding the alarm as hospitals across Ireland face severe pressure due to a surge in respiratory illnesses. Cork University Hospital (CUH) is particularly affected, with the highest number of patients waiting on trolleys. The HSE recorded a significant increase in cases, with 102 cases of influenza, 531 cases of Covid-19, and 445 cases of RSV in the region during the week of December 17th. Flu cases quadrupled in just two weeks, signaling the beginning of a challenging winter season.

In response to the rising cases, the HSE is urging the public to seek alternative services such as local pharmacies and HSE.ie before visiting GPs or Emergency Departments for respiratory symptoms. The HSE Quit Service is also offering free nicotine replacement therapy to help smokers quit, emphasizing the importance of taking control of one's health. Despite the grim predictions of 800 people a week being hospitalized with the flu, efforts to control virus outbreaks, including limiting social interactions and promoting vaccination, are underway in various regions.

As the winter virus outbreaks continue, the HSE warns that the flu outbreak is far from peaking and will likely extend into January. Meanwhile, a rise in synthetic drugs in the market has led to an unprecedented level of overdoses, highlighting the need for increased awareness and support for those affected.