There has been an ongoing increase during the last week in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Sligo University Hospital.
Both patients and hospital staff have been impacted.
Management at the hospital say they are working closely with HSE Public Health in the North West and the Occupational Health service to manage this increase in confirmed cases.
Some surgical activity is being curtailed and the hospital has been in direct contact with patients if there is any change to their planned procedure.
The hospital adds that at all times it tries to reduce the impact on patients but it has to balance that with ensuring it maintains a safe service.
Since the outset of the pandemic, Sligo University Hospital has put measures in place to make the hospital and clinics safe for patients and staff.
This includes separate entrances and waiting areas to manage patients attending the hospital for non-COVID-19 appointments while also managing patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
Patients who have an outpatient appointment should attend the appointment as per the details in their letter from the hospital.
However, the hospital is asking patients not to come to the hospital for scheduled appointments if they are showing any symptoms or signs of COVID-19.
Also, patients should not come to the hospital if any member of their household is showing any potential symptoms or signs of COVID-19 or if they are a close contact with a confirmed case.
If patients have any doubts, they should call the hospital in advance of their appointment to check.
All patients attending the hospital are asked wear a mask.
Other than in exceptional circumstances patients should attend the hospital alone.
Visiting restrictions continue . . . other than in the case of patients who are at end-of-life or other exceptional circumstances.
