CMO “concerned” at rising number of Covid-19 cases in recent days

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan has said that he is “concerned” with the rise in the number of new Covid-19 cases in recent days.

On Saturday evening, 456 new cases were confirmed, bringing the total in Ireland to 67, 526. Six deaths were also confirmed and there have now been 1,978 deaths in Ireland related to Covid-19. After some encouraging signs in recent weeks, the five-day moving average of case numbers has increased from 354 to 392.

Dr. Holohan has urged the public not to let their guard down, saying: “We have seen higher numbers in recent days than we expected based on the encouraging trends of the last three weeks.”

He added that “We are concerned that this progress is at risk. We have to remember that the virus is still very active in the community and we cannot let our guard slip. NPHET will continue to monitor the situation closely over the coming days.” The CMO reminded the public of the need to “wash our hands regularly, wear a face covering, keep our distance from others, avoid crowds, limit our social network, know the symptoms, self-isolate and contact a GP if we have them. Stay at home and restrict your movements if you are a close contact of a confirmed case.”

Ireland has been under Level 5 restrictions since October 21 and they are due to end on December 1. NPHET and the Government are currently considering what public health measures will be appropriate for December, with a decision set to be made public on November 26.

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