One of the country's busiest children's hospitals has introduced temporary visiting restrictions, following a surge in winter-related infections in recent weeks.

Temple Street Children's Hospital in Dublin cares for around 133,000 children every year, over 45,000 of whom are seen in the ED (emergency department).

According to the hospital, an increasing number of children have been admitted in recent weeks with infections that tend to be more common in the winter. These include the norovirus, better known as the winter vomiting bug, whooping cough and RSV, a virus that causes chest infections in very young children.

While these illnesses are usually mild if contracted by somebody outside of hospital, they can be dangerous for sick children already in hospital. As a result, Temple Street is urging parents to bring their children to their GP rather than the ED if they suspect one of these illnesses.

Furthermore, until further notice, only the parents and guardians of children will be permitted to visit patients.

"While the hospital management appreciates that this may cause inconvenience for some people, it is necessary to help prevent other children from getting these infections," the hospital said.