HSE Urges Urgent Help for Severe Covid Symptoms Amid Rising Cases

URGENT UPDATE: The Health Service Executive (HSE) is urgently advising the public to seek immediate medical assistance if they experience severe Covid symptoms, as new cases continue to emerge across Ireland. Just reported, 352 new Covid cases were confirmed nationwide over the past week, a decrease from 446 the previous week.

The highly transmissible XFG (Stratus) variant now dominates, accounting for 71.4% of all recorded cases. The highest concentration of new infections was found in Dublin with 106 cases, followed by Cork with 41 and Wicklow with 21. Alarmingly, some regions like Longford reported no new cases, while Carlow, Cavan, Laois, Mayo, and Westmeath each documented just two.

As Covid continues to circulate, the HSE emphasizes that while most individuals recover without medical intervention, anyone experiencing worsening conditions must act swiftly. Official guidance states:

“Call a GP or out-of-hours GP immediately if your symptoms worsen and you start feeling very unwell, particularly if your breathing changes.”

The World Health Organization has classified the Stratus variant as a “variant under monitoring,” highlighting its rapid spread, although it does not appear to cause more severe illness. This pattern is reflected in the latest figures from Ireland.

In addition to Covid, flu and RSV infections are surging. Last week, 119 flu cases were confirmed, a sharp increase from just 41 two weeks prior, while 40 RSV cases were reported—a dramatic rise from 17.

Those exhibiting severe Covid symptoms like difficulty breathing, high fever (over 40°C), or signs of dehydration are urged to call for immediate help. The HSE advises contacting your GP or emergency services if you experience:

• Severe shortness of breath
• High fever persisting after three days
• Confusion or excessive drowsiness
• Signs of dehydration, including dizziness or a weak pulse

The HSE has reiterated the importance of staying at home until 48 hours after symptoms have mostly or fully resolved. Current guidelines state:

“If you have any symptoms of Covid and feel unwell, you should stay at home and avoid contact with others, especially those at higher risk.”

As the situation develops, the public is urged to remain vigilant and proactive about their health. With Covid, flu, and RSV circulating simultaneously, the importance of monitoring symptoms and seeking help promptly cannot be overstated.

Stay informed and ensure you are following the latest health guidance. For real-time updates, keep checking official sources and health advisories.