*Photograph: Firestone
An outbreak of COVID-19 has emerged at Ennis Hospital.
On Thursday, a number of COVID-19 cases were reported as positive at Ennis Hospital affecting patients and staff on one ward.
Testing and contact tracing of staff and patients has commenced. An outbreak control team has been convened and is working alongside public health and occupational health to manage the response. An outbreak in a healthcare setting is called when there is a minimum of two positive contacts, The Clare Echo has sought clarification from UL Hospitals Group on the exact amount of cases at Ennis Hospital.
Patricia O’Gorman, Operational Director of Nursing, Ennis Hospital acknowledged that this was “an anxious time” for patients, their families, staff and their loved ones. “We would like to assure them that the outbreak control team now in place is taking all necessary measures to contain this outbreak to protect the health of our patients and the wider public. All affected patients will continue to receive the highest standards of care in Ennis Hospital”.
She issued a reminder that visiting is not permitted while window visits have been discontinued until further notice. Services will continue at the hospital with the injury unit and medical assessment unit remaining open. “Patients should continue to attend as normal for their appointments or procedures unless contacted in advance by the hospital,” Ms O’Gorman said.
