Some elective procedures have been postponed at Sligo University Hospital as staff battle very high flu rates and high numbers attending the Emergency Department.
It comes as there were 55 awaiting admission to the hospital this morning, the second highest figure in Ireland today.
In a statement issued this afternoon, the HSE say that Sligo University Hospital remains under significant pressure.
The hospital is currently treating 29 patients with respiratory illnesses including flu and RSV, and managing a flu outbreak affecting four wards.
In addition, there are 31 patients on trolleys awaiting admission to in-patient beds.
Due to the pressures on the site and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.
Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised and patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.
The hospital is also restricting visiting to the affected wards.
Visiting to the affected wards is limited to compassionate grounds only and visitors are advised to ring the ward in advance of any visiting.
Hospital visiting times will continue between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.
However, please adhere to the strict limit of two visitors per patient permitted to visit.
Visitors are requested to comply with the visiting restrictions and cooperate with hospital staff who are ensuring the restrictions are adhered to.
Given the severe impact of these outbreaks, the hospital is appealing to the public not to visit the hospital if they are unwell or have symptoms.
Visitors are also advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital and there will be a requirement for all visitors to wear face masks.
Sligo University Hospital expects pressure to continue over the coming days and is urging the public to use alternative healthcare services for treatment such as GP, GP Out of Hours, the Roscommon Injury Unit and pharmacies when appropriate.
Emergency Departments are always available to treat seriously ill patients and the sickest patients are seen first. People with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen.
The hospital apologies for any inconvenience caused and would like to thank the public for their understanding and patience at this time.
