Following our e-mail concerning healthcare workers who may find themselves included in the higher, or at risk, categories, updated guidance has been published to reflect changes in the advice issued to pregnant healthcare workers.

You can access the relevant HSE HR memo here and updated guidance document here.

As you can see from the document, a slightly more cautious approach is now suggested in this regard with additional clarifications provided on the factors that may see a pregnant healthcare worker be classified in the ‘Very High Risk’ category, including demographics, BMI measurements and underlying heath conditions.

 The HR memo also sets out the amended rules under which the close contact of household cases can be derogated from the need to remain away from the workplace. The IMO, and other health service unions, have expressed concerns in this regard, and this remains a matter of discussion between the parties.

As ever, we would encourage members to read this document, and should you have any queries, please contact the IMO on (01)6767273, or by email to memberadvisoryunit@imo.ie