Minister warns rise in flu and covid cases will increase pressure on hospitals

Stephen Donnelly thanked HSE workers for a reduction in the number of patients on trolleys in hospitals (Brian Lawless/PA)

An increase in influenza and covid cases will lead to increased pressure on hospitals and the wider health service in coming weeks, health minister Stephen Donnelly has warned.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) said there has been a rise in the number of people with respiratory illnesses attending emergency departments this week.