Write a comment
The HSE is encouraging anyone who is eligible for COVID-19 or flu vaccination to get their jabs to help reduce pressure on hospitals here. As of 5 January there were 374 in-patients with confirmed COVID-19 in hospitals here compared to 226 on December 5, 2022. For a significant number of these patients, COVID-19 will not be the principal reason for their ill-health and hospitalisation. However, infection with the virus can impact on patient condition and recovery, as well as the management of their care.
In a statement the executive said both COVID-19 and flu are among the factors contributing to the extreme and ongoing pressures on health and social care.
The 374 total represents 11% of occupied beds in Northern Ireland hospitals.
The HSE advise anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection and a high temperature to stay at home and avoid contact with other people and not visit others in health and social care settings.
More information can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk
