Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and which has now been detected in numerous locations worldwide. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).

SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms of infection with the new coronavirus may appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include shortness of breath, cough, fever and difficulty breathing. It is similar to severe infections with other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza.

MINIMISE RISK

It is not known exactly how contagious the new coronavirus is at the moment or how it spreads but seems to be passed on by those in close contact and may be spread by respiratory droplets released when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes.

You will be more likely to be at risk from the new coronavirus;

• If you recently travelled to China.
• If you have been in close contact with someone who has the new coronavirus.
• If you are elderly or you have an existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

However it should be noted that there is still a lot of unknown aspects to this virus at the moment.

PREVENTION

There is no vaccine available to prevent infection from the new coronavirus but you can take steps to reduce your risk of infection by following the World Health Organization’s standard recommendations (click here) for avoiding respiratory viruses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use a tissue when you cough to cover your mouth and nose.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
• Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you're sick.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that you often touch.
• Stay home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.
• If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing then contact our sergury, and inform us about any recent travels.
• In areas that have recently had cases of the coronavirus;
• Avoid contact with live animals and areas they have touched in live markets.
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or animal organs.

TRAVEL

If you're planning to travel internationally, first check travel advisories from the department of health. Contact us if you are travelling to an infected area and you have a health condition where you are more susceptible to respiratory infections and complications.

Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry commonly known as DEXA is considered the gold standard investigation in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and also in following the progress of the condition. This scan provides a measurement of your bone density. The DEXA scan is accurate, painless and uses a very low dose of radiation.

At present it is estimated that 300,000 people in Ireland have osteoporosis. One in five men and one in every two women over 50 years of age will develop osteoporosis in their lifetime.

Our technicians are all dual qualified nurses, who will provide you with individualised holistic care. All DEXA scan reports are promptly sent back to your own doctor within days of your scan.

Our DEXA scanning centre is located at our Greenlea Clinic at 118 Greenlea Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W. The Clinic is located in a quiet suburban location providing easy access and ample car parking.

You can book your DEXA scan by phone at 01 452 1907, by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., in person at reception or by simply filling out the contact form below.

Some of the following information has been obtained from the National Cervical Screening programme. Should you require any further information regarding your smear test, please visit www.cervicalcheck.ie as the site provides a wealth of information.

Your smear test can be carried out by either your Doctor or Practice Nurse. It is recommended that you attend for smear when you are mid-cycle. Mid-cycle is generally 10-14 days after your menses/period.

Your smear test results take approximately 4-5 weeks; you will receive a phone call to inform you of the results. Should you need to discuss any abnormal smears results, you may attend the nurse free of charge.

You can book your smear test by phone at 01 452 1907, by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., in person at reception or by simply filling out the contact form below. It is advisable to bring your letter from Cervical Check with you and if have not received a letter then please call the following free phone number 1800 454555.

WHAT IS CERVICAL SCREENING?

Cervical screening tests women for changes in the cells of the cervix (neck of the womb) by a smear test.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF CERVICAL SCREENING?

A smear test (sometimes called a pap test) can detect changes in the cells of the cervix (neck of the womb). The earlier abnormal cell changes are found, the easier they are to treat.

IS CERVICAL SCREENING EFFECTIVE?

Cervical screening is internationally accepted as a preventative health measure. While it is recognised that no screening test is 100% accurate, cervical screening is the most effective method of reducing a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer.