Covid and flu levels result in limited visiting access at Portiuncula

Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH) in Ballinasloe has a high level of COVID-19 and flu on St John’s Ward. Consequently, in an effort to reduce transmission to protect patients, staff and the public, the hospital is advising that visits to St John’s Ward will be restricted to those who have approval to visit on compassionate grounds.

This measure will take effect immediately and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis over the next seven days.

People are asked to contact the ward manager in advance in order to arrange a visit on compassionate grounds. PUH is also requesting that people do not visit the hospital if they are feeling unwell or have COVID-19 or flu like symptoms.

James Keane, Hospital Manager said: “We need to be vigilant in order to stop the spread of COVID-19, flu and other infections in our hospital and we are appealing to our community to help us. We know that restricting visits is not easy for patients and their families, especially at this time of year. However, this measure is being taken in order to protect our patients, many of whom are already very ill.

“People with recent symptoms of COVID-19 or flu are asked not to visit the hospital. We are also appealing to people not to visit the hospital if they have had contact with individuals with these symptoms. We would like to thank members of the public for their cooperation in helping to protect sick and vulnerable patients.”