MUNSTER rugby team members didn’t have to work too hard to score a try when they turned up at the Children’s Ark paediatric unit at University Hospital Limerick, to dispense some festive cheer among the young patients and nursing and medical staff.
It was Christmas come early for the children, who received gifts of signed rugby gear and accessories from the players who spent time chatting and posing for pictures with the youngsters, their parents and nursing and medical staff.
Commenting on the festive season at the Children’s Ark, Dr Siobhan Neville, consultant paediatrician, said: “December can be a busy time of year at the Children’s Ark as winter-related respiratory infections increase.”
“While we always do our best to get children well enough in time to celebrate at home with their families, there are always young patients who must spend the festive season in hospital with vaccine-preventable illnesses.
“We encourage families to speak to their GP or pharmacist about the free nasal flu vaccine available for anyone between the ages of two and 17. It is not too late to get vaccinated.
“We also hope that parents who are welcoming new babies over the winter months will have their newborns vaccinated against RSV before leaving the maternity hospital.”
She added: “Christmas is still a magical time in the Children’s Ark – we organise a range of seasonal activities and events for children and young people admitted to hospital or attending appointments at this time of year. We’d like to thank all the artists, musicians, sports stars, and other special guests who support us at this special time, and throughout the year.”