Surgeries at Dublin's three children's hospitals are being delayed over a respiratory virus.
The flu and winter vomiting bug have also caused a surge in patients presenting at Emergency Departments.
Children's Health Ireland oversees services at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Temple Street Hospital, and the National Children’s Hospital at Tallaght.
It says all elective and routine procedures are to be restricted at the hospitals in the coming weeks.
The Irish Examiner reports that CHI said it was not in a position to confirm the number of procedures that have had to be postponed yet but that Crumlin and Temple Street are likely to see the greatest impact.
CHI said last weekend saw an increase in the number of young children and infants presenting to its emergency departments.
Yesterday morning, there were 22 patients waiting for admission to an inpatient bed in the three children’s EDs, compared to 11 for the same period last week.
RSV, a common respiratory virus, is adding to the numbers. It can cause a cough or cold in children and adults, however it can cause bronchiolitis in younger children.
Parents whose child have flu-like symptoms are being told to kepp them at home and to make sure they get rest and fluids.
