Parents have also been asked to ensure their children are up to date with the MMR vaccine due to a recent spike in measles cases here.

The payment has been extended several times over the last year but is to come to a definitive termination at the end of March.

It emerged yesterday a fresh review is underway , despite it being examined 5 years ago.

The HSE is expanding the free, community-based service to patients in both public and private nursing homes, community facilities and in their own homes.

Hospital management say they are currently managing five COVID outbreaks on site.

Deputy Harkin said the scheme has so far saved the State over €111,000 in hospital and health transport.

Hospitals across the Shannonside region are currently dealing with a total of 76 patients on trolleys.

Plans submitted to Westmeath County Council seek the construction of a new 54 bed extension to the hospital at Ballinderry.