Management at Letterkenny University Hospital have confirmed that they are continuing to manage a Covid outbreak which is impacting on “a number of wards.”
Donegal Daily understands the impact of the outbreak is severe.
We understand that another four wards in the hospital were impacted by the virus outbreak yesterday.
A spokesperson for Saolta, who manages the hospital said “Letterkenny University Hospital continues to manage an outbreak of COVID-19, which is impacting a number of wards.
“Visiting restrictions are in place in areas of the hospital impacted by the outbreak. Letterkenny University Hospital is facilitating patient visiting in all areas of the hospital not affected by the outbreak in line with national guidance. However, visitors are being asked only to attend if absolutely necessary.
“In accordance with the Health Protection Surveillance Centre guidelines, an Outbreak Control Team has been convened at LUH and is working with Public Health and Occupational Health to manage the response to a COVID-19 outbreak at the hospital.”
Visiting restrictions at the hospital were curtailed last week because of the outbreak.
Sean Murphy, General Manager of Letterkenny University Hospital urged the public to be mindful of patient and staff safety.
“Our local community can help the hospital and protect both patients and staff by staying vigilant against COVID-19. As we deal with this outbreak, we would urge people to only visit the hospital if absolutely necessary and to follow all safety guidelines in attending.”
Hospital appointments are still going ahead, however.
People who have outpatient or other appointments at the hospital are advised that they should still attend their appointment unless contacted by a member of staff from the hospital and advised not to attend.
People should come to their appointments no earlier than ten minutes before the allotted time alone to help with social distancing, unless the support of another person is essential.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, awaiting a COVID-19 test or test result or has had a positive test within the last 14 days should call the number on their appointment letter to rearrange their appointment.