The full reopening of pubs has been cast in doubt due to the rise in new Covid-19 cases in Ireland.
‘Wet Pubs’ – that do not serve food – are due to reopen in Phase Four of the roadmap on 10th August. However, the recent spike in cases has become a cause for concern among health officials.
The National Public Health Emergency Team is set to monitor Covid-19 figures over this Bank Holiday weekend before making a decision on a move to Phase Four.
Thursday saw 85 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Ireland, while 38 more cases were reported yesterday.
Donegal has had one new confirmed case in the past week (this figure is valid to midnight on Wednesday 29 July).
While the majority of new cases nationwide were linked to known outbreaks, fresh fears are rising over unknown sources of community transmission.
Nphet will meet on Tuesday to consider Phase Four, which would also permit gatherings of up to 100 people indoors and 500 people outdoors.
Speaking ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said: “This weekend, the six key things people need to do are limit the size of your network & time you spend with them, keep your distance, meet up outside if possible, wash your hands, wear a face covering and download the COVID Tracker App.”
Meanwhile, concern surrounds the number of people who are not self-isolating after showing symptoms of Covid-19. A survey of GP’s has indicated that the vast majority of patients who had contacted them with COVID-like symptoms in the past week were not taking the necessary precautions to protect others.
Dr. Ronan Glynn said: “The importance of isolating as soon as you have any flu like symptoms cannot be overstated. Without this individual action we simply will not break the chains of transmission and we will put many people at risk of infection.
“It is important that people know that there is no charge for GP or testing services relating to COVID-19. Please do not hesitate to contact your GP if you have any concerns.”
