Justice Minister Helen McEntee has confirmed that a recent test for Covid-19 has returned a positive result.
Taking to Twitter this morning, Helen McEntee wrote: ‘I was recently tested and have received a positive result for Covid-19. In line with our HSE guidance, I am isolating. I am continuing to carry out my duties by working remotely including attending Cabinet.’
Last month, McEntee announced that she and her husband Paul Hickey were expecting their first child, meaning that she will become the first woman in State history to welcome a new baby while a member of the Government.
I was recently tested and have received a positive result for #Covid19. In line with our HSE guidance I am isolating. I am continuing to carry out my duties by working remotely including attending Cabinet.
— Helen McEntee TD (@HMcEntee) January 6, 2021
In her post this morning, McEntee said that ‘the information the HSE has shows that pregnant women or their babies are not at a higher risk if we get Covid-19.’ She added: ‘at the same time I urge everyone to follow public health advice and stay at home. If you think you’re developing symptoms no matter how small, act as though you have Covid. We all know the seriousness of the situation. We must protect our health system and our most vulnerable.’
HSE advice on pregnancy and Covid-19 says that ‘we are still learning about Covid-19 (coronavirus). We don’t fully know how it affects pregnant women and their babies.
‘The information we have so far shows that pregnant women or their babies are not at a higher risk of serious illness if they get Covid-19. This does not mean that pregnant women are protected against Covid-19.’
Additional advice on Covid-19 and pregnancy can be found here.
(header pic: Shutterstock)
