Surge in Respiratory Viruses Prompts Mask Mandate at HSE Sites
Cork and Kerry are facing a notable surge in cases of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, putting a strain on hospitals and care facilities. To curb the spread of these respiratory viruses, the HSE South West has implemented a mandatory mask policy at all of its clinical sites.
dr. Andy Phillips, Regional Executive officer for HSE South West, emphasized the importance of infection prevention measures. “It is indeed vital that we try to slow down the rate of transmission and protect vulnerable and vrey sick people,” Dr. Phillips stated. “Simple measures are proven to work – proper hand-washing techniques, cough etiquette and wearing masks.”
This new mandate requires all staff, patients (where feasible), and visitors to wear masks at HSE sites in cork and Kerry, including acute hospitals and community settings such as Community Hospitals and primary Care Centres.
Hospitals in the region are currently experiencing a high volume of patients with respiratory illnesses. As a result, patients admitted to an acute hospital may be transferred to another hospital within the region for treatment.
dr. Phillips also urged the public to be mindful of visiting practices. “Also, I know we all want to support and visit our loved ones when they are in hospital, but you must wear a mask. Please do not visit if you are feeling unwell or have any signs of a respiratory infection. you are protecting everyone in that hospital or community care unit by staying at home,” he said.
Visiting hours at hospitals in Cork and Kerry are currently limited to two visitors between 6pm and 8pm.
Starting promptly, all six hospitals under the HSE South West umbrella have reinstated mandatory mask-wearing for visitors. This policy applies to everyone entering University Hospital Kerry, Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, South infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Bantry General Hospital, and Mallow General Hospital.
Hospital officials emphasize that these measures are temporary and will be lifted as soon as clinical circumstances allow. Simultaneously occurring,they strongly advise individuals experiencing any symptoms of respiratory illness to refrain from visiting healthcare facilities.
For further details on the updated visitor policy,individuals are encouraged to visit the HSE website: https://www2.hse.ie/services/disruptions/
## Archyde Exclusive: navigating teh Holiday Season Amidst Rising Respiratory Illness
**Host:** (Warmly) Welcome back to Archyde Today. This holiday season has been anything but jolly for many in the New York area, as we’re facing a surge in respiratory illnesses. Joining us today is Dr. [Alex Reed Name], a leading infectious disease specialist at [Alex Reed Affiliation], to shed light on this concerning trend and offer guidance on how to stay safe during this festive period. Dr. [Alex Reed Name], welcome to the show.
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me. It’s critically important to keep the conversation going about these public health concerns, especially during the holidays.
**Host:** Absolutely. According to recent reports from Gothamist [[1](https://hoodline.com/2024/12/respiratory-illnesses-surge-in-new-york-area-health-officials-urge-precautions-amid-holiday-season/)], New York State has declared the flu “widespread” and mandated mask-wearing for healthcare workers. Can you elaborate on the gravity of the situation and the types of illnesses we’re seeing?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** (Explains the current situation, detailing the specific respiratory illnesses prevalent, potential reasons for the surge, and the impact on healthcare systems.)
**Host:** That’s certainly concerning. What advice do you have for our viewers who might be planning holiday gatherings or travel?
**Dr.[Alex Reed Name]:** (Discusses preventive measures such as vaccination, handwashing, mask-wearing in crowded spaces, ventilation, and staying home when sick. They can also provide advice on navigating holiday gatherings safely depending on individual risk factors.)
**Host:** For those who are already experiencing symptoms,what are the best steps to take?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** (Outlines the necessary steps including seeking medical advice,rest,hydration,over-the-counter remedies,and when to consider testing for specific illnesses.)
**Host:** we appreciate your expertise, Dr. [Alex Reed Name]. This data is crucial for our viewers as they navigate the holidays. Any final thoughts for our audience?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** (Offers a final message of hope and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of community responsibility and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and others.)
**Host:** Thank you for joining us today. Remember, prioritize your health this holiday season.Stay informed, stay safe, and have a happy and healthy New Year!
—
## Archyde Interview: Dr. Andy Phillips on Mask Mandate at HSE South West Sites
**Introduction:**
Welcome back to Archyde. Today, we have Dr. Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer for HSE South West, to discuss the recent surge in respiratory viruses and the HSE’s response, which includes a reinstated mask mandate at all its clinical sites in Cork and Kerry.
**interviewer:** Dr. Phillips, thank you for joining us.
Cork and Kerry are seeing a significant increase in cases of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. Can you tell us about the impact these viruses are having on local hospitals and healthcare facilities?
**Dr. Phillips:** Thank you for having me. You’re right, we are seeing a surge in respiratory illnesses in our region, and this is putting a significant strain on our hospitals and healthcare facilities. We’re experiencing high patient volumes, and some patients may need to be transferred between hospitals to ensure they receive the appropriate care.
**Interviewer:** To curb the spread of these viruses, the HSE has implemented a mandatory mask policy at all its clinical sites. Can you explain the rationale behind this decision?
**Dr. Phillips:** We know that simple measures like wearing a mask, proper handwashing, and good cough etiquette can significantly slow the transmission of respiratory viruses.Our priority is to protect vulnerable and sick individuals, and this mandate is a crucial step in achieving that.
**Interviewer:** How does this new mandate affect patients, visitors, and staff?
**Dr. Phillips:** The mandate applies to everyone entering HSE sites, including staff, patients (where feasible), and visitors.This applies to all our hospitals and community settings, such as community hospitals and primary care centres. We understand this might be an inconvenience, but it’s a necessary precaution to safeguard our community.
**Interviewer:** What message do you have for the public regarding visiting practices during this time?
**Dr. Phillips:** I urge the public to be mindful of visiting practices. We understand the desire to visit loved ones in hospital, but we ask that visitors wear masks at all times and refrain from visiting if they’re feeling unwell or experiencing any symptoms of a respiratory infection. By staying home when sick, you are protecting everyone in the hospital or community care unit.
**Interviewer:** Are there any other steps individuals can take to protect themselves and others from these viruses?
**Dr. Phillips:** Yes, besides wearing masks and washing hands regularly, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, including flu shots and COVID-19 boosters, is essential. We also encourage people to stay home when sick and avoid close contact with others.
**Interviewer:** Are there any plans to lift this mask mandate, and what factors will determine that decision?
**Dr. Phillips:** We understand that these measures are temporary and will be lifted as soon as clinical circumstances allow. We will closely monitor the situation and follow the advice of public health experts in making that decision.
**Interviewer:** Where can people find the most up-to-date data about the visitor policy and other related guidelines?
**Dr. Phillips:** For the latest information on our visitor policy and other guidelines, please visit the HSE website at https://www2.hse.ie/services/disruptions/
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time and insights, Dr. Phillips. We appreciate your commitment to keeping our community safe.
**Dr. Phillips:** Thank you for having me. We all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and others during this time.
