Visitor Restrictions As Vomiting Bug Back In Kerry General Hospital

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STRICT visitor restrictions have been introduced with immediate effect at Kerry General Hospital (KGH) due to a number of patients with suspected norovirus – commonly known as the vomiting bug.

Visitors are asked to adhere strictly to the visiting times which are 2pm-4pm and 6.30pm-8.30pm. Two visitors are allowed per patient with strictly no children allowed to visit.

The HSE  are asking visitors to please respect these restricted visiting times and the security staff at the hospital who are ensuring the restrictions are adhered to.

Visitors are also advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital.

“We would appeal to people not to visit KGH or any healthcare facility if they have been affected by vomiting and/or diarrhoea, or if they have been in contact with anyone with these symptoms until they have been symptom free for 72 hours,” said TJ O Connor, General Manager, KGH.

“The bug is currently prevalent in the community and visitors may unknowingly bring the bug into the hospital when visiting sick relatives or friends. Patient care is our priority and we would urge the public to help hospital staff keep the virus at bay as it can further debilitate those who are already sick in hospital”.

There are exceptions to the general visiting hours on five specific wards but, as with all wards, people who have been affected by the bug or who have been in contact with others affected by the bug are asked not to visit any healthcare facility for 72 hours in order to limit / deter the spread of the bug.

· Intensive Care/ Coronary Care Unit – visiting is welcomed but restricted to immediate family only from3.00pm – 4.00pm and 6.00pm – 8.00pm daily.

· Special Care Baby Unit, also known as the Neonatal Unit – visiting is welcomed but restricted to parents and grandparents.

· Ardagh Medical Rehabilitation Ward – visiting times are between 4.00pm – 8.00pm daily.

· Maternity Unit Labour Ward – by agreement with nurse manager day/night. Post Natal Ward -Partners only may visit from 12:30pm to 8.30pm.

· In the Children’s Ward, parents or guardians may visit anytime.

Anyone with any queries about visiting times or visiting a particular ward should ring the Hospital in advance on Tel: 066 7184000.

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