Patients at the region’s main hospital are now being asked for their vaccination status when they’re admitted to the facility.
The UL Hospitals Group says the measures are being put in place to try to reduce the spread of COVID-19 at University Hospital Limerick.
Further walk in vaccine facilities are being supplied in Ennis today.
The UL Hospitals Group says the guidelines, which are in line with national advice, are designed to maximise patient and staff safety in hospitals.
Patients attending UHL can be asked about their vaccination status before they attend for appointments, at the time of check-in or admission, or as soon as possible thereafter, and in particular, for unscheduled attendances at the Emergency Department.
The Group says the information helps the hospital manage patients who may come into contact with a COVID case while admitted.
In the case of patients being unable to communicate the information themselves, it will be gathered from their next of kin or a family member accompanying the patient to hospital.
The UL Hospitals Group insists all patients will receive care and treatment whatever their vaccination status, but that the measure will assist with contact tracing either in the hospital or afterwards in the community.
Vaccination can also be organised for inpatients who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, if they wish to avail of it during their hospital stay.
People wishing to avail of a first or second Pfizer dose can do so at Ennis’ West County Hotel today between 9am and 6pm.
