The intensive care unit at University College Hospital Galway has been temporarily moved following the discovery of an infection caused by an airborne fungus.
A spokeswoman for the Western Health Board said the decision to relocate the unit was a temporary measure caused by the discovery of the aspergillusorganism.
In a statement the health board said the organism was common and did not affect healthy people. But it said the organism does pose a risk to vulnerable patients in an intensive care unit.
The board confirmed that all urgent and emergency intensive care services will continue to be provided. However, some elective patients may have their admissions rescheduled.
The hospital is due to transfer the intensive care unit to a fully refurbished area early next month.