Ring, don’t visit – Kilkenny’s healthcare facilities closed to visitors

District and community hospitals, residential care centres for the elderly, accommodation units for those with disabilities and inpatient and continuing care facilities for mental health in Kilkenny have now had strict visitor restrictions imposed upon them.

The decision was made late last night by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and South East Community Healthcare to impose the restrictions in the interest of patient care.

“A statement released by the HSE said: “In line with containment of the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) respiratory illness, visitor restrictions are in place at all residential care centres and facilities run under the auspices of the HSE/South East Community Healthcare across counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford.

“The action is under way as part of ongoing vigilance regarding Covid19 and the reduction of opportunities for its spread.

“District and community hospitals, residential care centres for the elderly, accommodation units for those with disabilities and inpatient and continuing care facilities for mental health are all subject to the restrictions, which are being applied in the interest of patient care.

“The HSE/South East Community Healthcare regrets this inconvenience but it is necessary to help maximise protection for both patients and staff.

“Where appropriate, mobile phone contact between families should be considered as an alternative to visiting,” the statement concluded.