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HSC not yet implementing visiting restrictions

HSC not yet implementing visiting restrictions

Thursday 22 October 2020

HSC not yet implementing visiting restrictions

Thursday 22 October 2020


Health & Social Care is not currently imposing any new restrictions on visitors to the hospital and other States-run facilities, however those in charge are reviewing the "emerging situation", which has led private providers to close their doors as a precaution.

Privately-run care homes have entered a precautionary lockdown after a positive case of Covid-19 on Monday that was not associated to travel. Subsequent contact tracing has identified a second positive case linked to it.

In light of uncertainty around the index case - who has not travelled in the last 14 days - numerous care homes have introduced visiting restrictions that will be further reviewed in the coming days. 

While HSC is also reviewing its operational decisions on a daily basis, it has followed a different course of action. 

"HSC has confirmed that similar restrictions are not being implemented at this time," said Dermot Mullin, Director of Hospital and Adult Community Care Services.

"All operational services are monitoring the emerging situation and liaising closely with our colleagues in Public Health."

A&E ED emergency department hospital peh

Pictured: Mr Mullin said people with symptoms of a cough or cold should not visit any health and social care departments, except if they require urgent treatment in the Emergency Department.

HSC said that while the care homes make their own "independent" decisions, all local care facilities are able to liaise with Public Health, which reportedly "understands the cautious approach" being implemented by some care homes.

Mr Mullin said it is important that service users also use caution its facilities and practice good hygiene. 

"As we move towards the end of the year, we do need the public to work with us through what could be a challenging period.

"It is the season when a lot of people with have coughs and colds so the message of Catch it, Bin it, Wash your hands is very important.

"I would also ask anyone with symptoms of a cough or cold not to visit any health and social care departments except if they require emergency treatment in the Emergency Department. Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms should contact the Coronavirus helpline or their GP surgery for advice and support."

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