Visiting restrictions have been put in place at Portiuncula University Hospital in Co Galway due to flu and Covid-19 outbreaks.
Members of the public have been asked not to visit people in the hospital in Ballinasloe if they are feeling unwell or have respiratory symptoms.
In a statement, hospital management also said that due to a flu and Covid outbreak on St John's Ward visiting will only be facilitated on compassionate grounds and on an exceptional basis only.
"These Covid-19 and flu outbreaks present a risk to patients, many of whom are very ill, and we must take every measure to protect them," Deputy Hospital Manager Marguerite Dooley said.
She added that while management "appreciate that restricting visiting at this time of year is difficult for patients and their families ... this is a necessary measure to ensure the hospital can continue to keep all our patients safe."
