HSE Urges Care As Temperatures Fall

The Department of Health and Children and the HSE is reminding people to be extra vigilant during the current cold spell and to check on vulnerable people who could be at risk. Cold weather can be a problem for anyone, especially older people, children, people with a disability and those with long-term illness.

While the majority of health services around the country are operating as normal, some services are being affected by weather conditions. This is varying around the country as weather conditions change.

Some services, including the ambulance service, are under pressure but are coping well, with assistance from the Defence Forces, Civil Defence and voluntary services including the Red Cross.

If people are unsure if a service is operating they should contact their Local Health Office (for community and social care services) or their Hospital.

Those who have an Out Patient Appointment, and cannot make it to the hospital, should contact the hospital to cancel or reschedule. This list of all hospitals, with their phone numbers, will help you to make contact easily

The HSE is also reminding people that the elderly and vulnerable may need additional support during this adverse weather.

People should pay a visit to elderly neighbours to ensure that they have adequate food, heating and prescription medicines. The elderly can be particularly prone to hypothermia and pneumonia when temperatures dip so ensuring they have enough heat and hot food and regular hot drinks is particularly important to their wellbeing at this time.

The risk of slips and falls on icy footpaths is likely to continue in the days ahead. Ice and snow is likely to lead to an increase in the number of people presenting with sprains and fractures as a result of slips and falls on icy roads and footpaths.

The HSE is advising the public to reduce the risk by wearing non-slip shoes or boots, walking slowly and keeping your hands out of your pockets to help protect you in the case of a slip or fall.

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health and Children said: "It is important that we all take the recommended precautions during this severe cold weather. Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to cold weather."

(BMcC/KMcA)