Flu rates in Leitrim above national average as hospitals face pressure

It has been revealed that flu rates in Leitrim are higher than the national average. The virus has been spreading rapidly throughout the winter season, with many hospitals experiencing outbreaks and being forced to introduce restrictions due to the widespread nature of the illness.

Flu rates in Leitrim were above the national average during the first week of the year, with Sligo recording the highest flu rates per 100,000 population. The flu rate in Leitrim stood at 56.8 per 100,000 last week.

Sligo University Hospital has been dealing with ongoing flu outbreaks, with outbreaks currently affecting two wards and visitor restrictions remaining in place.

The INMO Trolley Watch also revealed that, as of January 8, there were 52 people awaiting a hospital bed at Sligo University Hospital, making it the fourth most overcrowded hospital in Ireland on that day.

Other counties recording flu rates above the national average alongside Leitrim and Sligo include Cavan, Donegal, Louth, Westmeath, Offaly, Waterford, Tipperary and Limerick.

READ NEXT: Last chance to apply for Leitrim Creative Communities funding

According to the weekly Severe Acute Respiratory Infection report, most people who were hospitalized with severe acute respiratory infection and tested positive for influenza during late 2025 had not received the 2025/2026 flu vaccine before becoming ill.

Although flu remains active, positive flu test results have decreased, and it is believed that flu may have peaked before Christmas. Influenza test positivity levels were moderate, falling from 47 per cent in the final week of 2025 to 30 per cent in the first week of 2026.

Members of the public are being reminded to watch for flu symptoms, including a high temperature of 38 degrees or above, aches and pains, headache, sore throat and cough.

People are also being asked to be considerate when using hospital services, as emergency departments continue to face increased pressure.

HSE injury units remain available to treat sprains, breaks and minor wounds, while the public is encouraged to use out-of-hours GP services and seek advice from pharmacists where appropriate.

READ NEXT: Leitrim man has been elected to national IFA role