Tullamore Hospital reports increasing levels of Covid-19 amid alert to patients

The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore has issued an alert with new advice to patients thinking of attending the hospital after an increase in Covid and flu cases.

A statement said the hospital "is experiencing a very busy period with a significantly increased number of people requiring admission to the Hospital with increasing levels of flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses in circulation."

Management have opened additional beds to cope with this extra demand on capacity and resources at this time.  

In new advice to patients, the hospital said: "Where possible, the management at Tullamore Hospital is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a local injury unit.

"Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the ED in Tullamore Hospital with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen.  

"Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and Tullamore Hospital would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED. Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency.   

"The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their support and understanding."