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Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020

Tuesday, 15 September 2020

Ceisteanna (743)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

743. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health if guidelines in relation to visits to nursing homes will be amended to allow visits by families, subject to wearing personal protective equipment, particularly in cases in which there are patients that due to illness are speech and visually challenged, in view of the fact that isolation from family can cause deterioration in the patient and mental health issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23800/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

People living in long-term residential care facilities are particularly vulnerable populations in the context of Covid-19 and have been identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to be at a higher risk of being susceptible to infection from this disease and for subsequent adverse outcomes. The actions and measures we have taken in Ireland to support nursing homes and their residents have evolved on foot of epidemiological data and guidance from the WHO and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). These measures have been both society wide as well as focused specifically on residential facilities.

Residential settings are people’s homes as well as places where health and social care are provided. The introduction of physical distancing, isolation and restricted contact with family and loved ones has changed the usual dynamic of social interaction.During these times there has been a particular emphasis on retaining a holistic view of the wellbeing of residents, remaining person-centred, being cognisant of their rights as citizens, and being vigilant that in seeking to shield them from infection that these rights are not infringed upon in to an extent, or in a manner, that is disproportionate.

In line with the level of disease in the community, the National Public Health Emergency Team advised that the gradual reintroduction of usual activities while taking public health precautions should commence. This is reflected in the latest advice on protecting the over 70s and the medically vulnerable and also in visiting guidance, both of which are issued by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.

The HSPC has completed its most recent update of visiting guidance and it is available at https://www.hpsc.ie/az/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/infectionpreventionandcontrolguidance/residentialcarefacilities

This guidance is under constant review, balancing risks with benefit in line with the disease trajectory in the community.

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