AN OUTBREAK OF fleas at University Hospital Galway was discovered over the weekend at the outpatient department.

A number of staff working in the department were bitten, but no patients have reported any bites so far.

The hospital is now working to get rid of the infestation and have spoken with affected staff.

The problem is a concern because 4,000 patients a week pass through the outpatient department, with a further 40,000 on the waiting list to attend. “Any slow down because of the infestation would be of major concern,” said Padraig Conneely, chairman HSE West Regional Forum.

Conneely also told TheJournal.ie the hospital is taking every precaution to make sure no one else is affected by the fleas:

It is the biggest hospital in the west so if it spreads to the main hospital it will be of major concern. They are taking every precaution and trying to find the source of the fleas to have the issue resolved as soon as possible.

In a statement, a spokesperson for HSE West said:

The hospital is sorry for the discomfort to staff and for any worry this has caused to staff and may cause patients and is grateful for the patience and support of all concerned while we deal with this.

We are following appropriate measures to address this matter. Our aim is to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients and staff at all times. The hospital are taking all appropriate measures and will continue to do so until the matter is fully addressed. We have also liaised with the HSE Environmental Health and Public Health Departments in relation to this matter.

Read: HSE to recruit up to 1,000 graduate nurses and midwives next year >

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More