C Diff outbreak being contained at Cavan General

The outbreak of the C difficile infection at Cavan General Hospital is being contained but visiting continues to be restricted as a precaution, says the HSE.

The outbreak is confined to one ward and visits to it, admissions in and transfers out, with the exception of patients being discharged to their own home, remain restricted.

'Hand-hygiene measures and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment are being rigorously enforced. Enhanced cleaning schedules have been put in place,' said a spokesperson.

Ongoing surveillance

'Surveillance of all patients and staff for gastrointestinal symptoms is ongoing.

'Visitors are discouraged from visiting the hospital unless absolutely necessary. Children are not permitted to visit any wards in the Hospital.

'Members of the public who have experienced vomiting and/or diarrhoea should not visit the hospital during their illness or for 48 hours after their symptoms have ceased.

'Visitors should not bring food, fruit or flowers to any of the wards. All visitors are requested to wash their hands before and after visiting patients.

'The hospital Infection Outbreak/Escalation Committee is carrying out daily assessments to review the effectiveness of these and other infection prevention and control measures that have been instigated,' said the spokesperson.