The Health Service Executive (HSE) has said that flu cases are likely to peak during Christmas week, with hospitals preparing for a surge in admissions. As of 16 December, 634 people were reported in hospital with the flu, and modelling indicates that the number could rise to between 800 and 1,100 on any single day at the height of the outbreak.
Emergency departments across the country are experiencing high levels of activity as patients of all ages present with flu-like symptoms alongside routine emergencies. Dr Seán Underwood, an emergency doctor at Cork University Hospital, described the situation as demanding. “A lot of people are really unwell with fever, severe aches, cough and breathlessness,” he said after completing a 24-hour shift.
Flu this year has hit earlier than in previous seasons, he added, and vulnerable groups are at risk of severe complications. “62 admissions this year to ICU and 17 deaths so far,” Dr Underwood said. He noted that while there have been improvements in preparedness compared to past years, additional hospital beds are still needed to manage the expected peak.
Dr Underwood praised the contributions of GPs and the public, highlighting increased vaccination rates and extended GP hours. “Vaccination levels are up on previous years, and Ireland is doing well compared to some European neighbours,” he said. Hospitals have also increased consultant presence over weekends and improved patient discharge procedures to help manage capacity.
Children, who have the highest transmission rates, pose particular concern during the holiday period when they are in close contact with older relatives. “It is a worry for how we’re going to cope after Christmas,” Dr Underwood said. He explained that emergency departments are seeing two main groups: those who can recover at home with rest and over-the-counter medications, and higher-risk groups such as older adults, people with chronic illnesses, or those with immunosuppression. These patients can deteriorate quickly and require immediate medical attention.
To reduce the spread of flu and protect vulnerable patients, visiting restrictions have been in place in hospitals for the past two weeks. In Cork, wards now allow one visitor per patient between 6pm and 8pm, with more flexible arrangements in emergency departments on a compassionate basis. Dr Underwood said the measures also help prevent staff shortages caused by exposure to the virus.
He urged anyone with underlying health conditions who develops symptoms to seek medical advice, especially if they experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or coughing up blood. “You’re getting worse rather than better, that’s when we’ll be here to serve you in Ireland’s emergency departments,” he said, emphasizing the need for vigilance over the holiday period.
The HSE continues to monitor the outbreak closely and advises the public to follow vaccination guidance and basic hygiene measures to reduce the impact of flu during the festive season.
