Parents urged to keep children out of school if showing symptoms

As schools and childcare facilities reopen, the Chief Medical Officer is urging parents to keep their children home from school and childcare facilities if they are displaying new symptoms of illness.

Professor Breda Smyth made the comments in light of the re-opening of schools and childcare facilities this week and the risk of increased respiratory virus transmission.

Nationally hospitals are seeing high levels of ‘flu and COVID-19, while cases of RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) appear to be decreasing. The three respiratory viruses accounted for more than 1,200 hospitalisations last week.

Cavan General Hospital management said there were "unprecedented" levels of presentations to the Emergency Departments this week.

According to the INMO's Trolley Watch figures there are 21 patients in total on trolleys in Cavan General this morning, 19 of who are in the Emergency Department.

Prof Smyth said: “As schools and childcare facilities re-open after the Christmas break, I am urging parents to be vigilant for symptoms of respiratory viruses in children.

“If your child has any new-onset 'flu-like symptoms such as congestion, cough, runny nose or high temperature, parents should continue to be mindful of others and, if possible, keep their children at home from school or childcare facilities.

“Children should be kept at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have fully or substantially resolved.

“The vast majority of respiratory illnesses can be treated successfully at home with over-the-counter medication. There is very good advice on the HSE website undertheweather.ie. However, parents should trust their instincts and seek medical attention if required.”

Prof Smyth cautioned that this year’s ‘flu season has not yet peaked, and there is still time for people to avail of a protective vaccine which takes two weeks to become fully effective.

Prof Smyth said: “As we are still in the middle of ‘flu season, I am appealing to parents to please consider the ‘flu vaccine for your child. It’s a nasal spray and is administered free of charge by GPs and pharmacists.

“I would also encourage people to keep up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines and please make an appointment for a booster if you are eligible."