THE MATER HOSPITAL held an exercise to test its preparedness for a potential admission to the National Isolation Unit earlier today.

A similar practice run took place in the UK a few weeks ago, where a nationwide simulation took place of what would happen if there was an Ebola outbreak.

Where there is a high-risk case of an Ebola infection in Ireland, it is protocol that they would be sent to the National Isolation Unit in the Mater Hospital.

‘Major incident exercise’

A statement from the hospital said that the “major incident exercise” involves all services that might potentially be called upon to assist with the evaluation and management of a potential admission to the National Isolation Unit.  

“As part of this preparedness, the exercise will be conducted in conjunction with HSE ambulance services, Dublin Fire Brigade Ambulance and the Gardai,” said the statement, adding that those taking part in the practice run will be:

• The Mater Hospital’s Dr Paddy Mallon, Dr Jack Lambert and Ms Michele McCormack
• The HSE Ambulances’ Lawrence Kenna
• The Dublin Fire Brigade Ambulances’ Mr Michael O’Reilly
• Garda Inspector Liam Casey.

While the simulation was taking place, a section of Berkerley Road outside the National Isolation Unit was cordoned off by the gardaí for approximately 20-30 minutes.

Members of the public were urged not to panic if the observe any restrictions in and around the area where the isolation unit is situated.

“Supervised evaluation of ambulance and hospital staff will take place at all stages of this exercise to ensure that a potential patient is safely managed and the staff are well versed in the procedures that are necessary to ensure the safety of all involved,” said the Mater Hospital statement.

The hospital said earlier that there would be minimal disruption to the day to day running of the hospital.

Originally published 6.45am

Read: US says people returning from West Africa DON’T have to be quarantined because of the stigma>

Read: Australia is not allowing anyone from Ebola-hit nations into the country>