Write a commentThe Chief Executive of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust says it is vital that the public adhere to the COVID-19 restrictions to reduce the stress on the Trust’s capacity.
Addressing a virtual meeting of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust Board, Shane Devlin said the Trust is currently experiencing a second surge that has presented a variety of challenges.
Reflecting on what could be done to help the situation, Mr Devlin said it is was important the local community adhered to the restrictions and drive down the rate at which COVID-19 is spreading.
However, he also informed board members to expect a delay between a decrease in the rate of transmission and a reduction in the numbers requiring hospitalisation.
“We need the community to behave in line with the restrictions,” said Mr Devlin.
“However, this Board must not be under any illusion that will have a quick impact on the hospital environment.
“In April, cases peaked but hospital inpatient care did not drop until considerably later and the evidence from the first outbreak shows that impact of lockdown is evidenced later in the hospital environment.”
Adam Morton - Local Democracy Reporter
