Government Warns of Major Hospital Strain from Flu, COVID-19

URGENT UPDATE: The Irish government is bracing for significant pressure on hospitals this winter as flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases surge. Almost 2,000 new flu cases were reported in the week ending November 29, 2023, doubling the previous week’s figures. Officials warn that healthcare services will face overwhelming demands in the coming weeks, with 700–1,500 hospital beds occupied daily.

In a memo to Cabinet, the Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed an early start to the flu season, occurring two to three weeks sooner than anticipated. Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, reported that over 500 patients are currently hospitalized with flu symptoms, prompting several hospitals across the country to implement visitor restrictions.

As flu and COVID-19 co-circulate, the HSE projects a rise in emergency department presentations. The ongoing increase in RSV cases compounds these pressures, although current levels remain low among children aged 1-4. With flu hospitalizations already on the rise, urgent action is required to mitigate the impacts on healthcare.

To enhance vaccination rates, the HSE plans to expand access to the children’s flu vaccine in schools, although this will not roll out until next year. Currently, children aged 2-17 can receive the nasal spray flu vaccine through community GPs or pharmacies.

The government is emphasizing strong surveillance, enhanced vaccination efforts, and operational readiness to safeguard the most vulnerable populations. An urgent memo has been distributed to all health providers, outlining critical actions including acceleration of vaccination coverage and readiness for potential outbreaks.

The winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination program commenced on October 2, 2023, offering free vaccines to at-risk groups, including individuals 60 and over and children aged 2-17. Ireland currently leads Europe in flu vaccine uptake among older adults, with nearly 75% of those aged 65 and older vaccinated last year, while current uptake stands at 58% for adults over 60.

Additionally, the RSV infant immunization program continues this winter for babies born between September 1 and February 28. This initiative, which significantly reduced hospitalizations last year, has now expanded to include infants up to six months old at the start of the RSV season.

The HSE is actively supporting healthcare staff through on-site clinics and mobile vaccination teams, while also reinforcing communication strategies to promote vaccination.

As the situation develops, the HSE is implementing strategic measures under its Urgent and Emergency Care Operational Plan to ensure access to care remains available for those in need. Despite current challenges, the HSE reports a 8% decrease in trolley waits nationally, aiming to ensure that 99% of patients aged 75 and older are admitted or discharged within 24 hours.

The government’s multi-faceted approach aims to navigate this challenging winter season, prioritizing public health and safety amid rising infection rates. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.