Hospital Extends Ban As Vomiting Bug Problem Worsens

The Mid Western Regional Hospital in Limerick has today implemented a ban on visitors except in the case of those visiting critically ill patients, following a further escalation of the winter vomiting bug.

In a statement issued this evening, the HSE Mid West revealed that 12 cases have been confirmed among patients in five wards. Security at the hospital has been increased and the outpatients’ door has been closed, according to the statement. Anyone wishing to visit the hospital is requested to check with staff before entering.

The visiting restrictions do not apply to parents of children in the paediatric unit, where the attendance of parents is part of routine nursing care.

“Outpatient, day care services and routine admissions are currently not affected, but people presenting at clinics and outpatients will be asked to show their appointment cards to prove that they are seeking to enter the hospital premises for a good reason,” said a spokesman for the HSE.

The public has been asked to co-operate fully with the advice and instruction of staff in fighting the winter vomiting bug.