Visits to nursing homes across Ireland are being restricted due to the coronavirus.
Only essential visitors will be allowed entry from this weekend - and no children or groups - in a bid to avoid old folk contracting the killer bug.
The news comes following an outbreak of the disease here, with 13 cases confirmed in the Republic alone.
Nursing Homes Ireland said today: “All visitors are asked to contact prior to attending.
"Visitors should only seek to attend in urgent circumstances and the management reserve the right to impose full restrictions where necessary.
“We urge prospective visitors to nursing homes to be cognisant and understanding of the measure that is required in the interest of resident and staff safety.
“Older people and people in nursing homes with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable if they contact the virus.
“The virus presents an unprecedented situation for our nursing homes and the care provided within them.
“Nursing homes are imposing the visitor restrictions in the best interests of residents and staff. We thank people for their understanding and patience during this period of unprecedented challenges presented by Covid-19.”
