Visitor ban introduced at Cork’s Mercy University Hospital over infection risk

Cork hospital suspends visiting to reduce infection risk, with exceptions on compassionate grounds and review within 48 hours

A spokesperson for the hospital said the closure was due to “infection prevention and control reasons” and will be reviewed in 48 hours. Picture Dan Linehan

The Mercy University Hospital in Cork city is closed to visitors to limit the risk of infection, effective immediately, the hospital said in a statement this afternoon.

A spokesperson for the hospital said the closure was due to “infection prevention and control reasons” and will be reviewed in 48 hours.

“All requests for visiting on compassionate grounds will be facilitated - please contact the ward manager to discuss directly. Please follow the guidance of staff regarding hand hygiene and the use of PPE.

The spokesperson added: “Please do not visit the hospital if you have a cough, vomiting, or diarrhoea, or feel unwell in any way. This is to protect inpatients and staff and limit the spread of infection.”