Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has said the public need to “dial back” social contacts, as Covid-19 cases rise yet again.
3,174 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in Ireland today, marking another significant jump this week after over 3,700 new cases yesterday.
A NPHET briefing today revealed that the level of socialising in the Irish population is at its greatest level since the pandemic began.
Dr. Holohan said: “Over the past week, incidence is increasing rapidly in those aged 19-24 years and across all adult age groups up to 75 years. This high incidence is likely associated with mid-term socialising and greater levels of social activity across communities.
“If you socialise, be mindful of your contacts in the days after, especially consider anyone you may meet who may be immunocompromised or vulnerable to COVID-19.”
“If you experience symptoms isolate immediately and arrange a PCR test. Do not go to school, college or socialise until you receive a negative result.”
The Department of Health says that there are now 460 Covid-19 patients in hospitals – down from 493 yesterday. Of those, 86 people are receiving treatment in intensive care settings – down four from yesterday’s figures.
There were 21 Covid-19 patients recorded at Letterkenny University Hospital on 2nd November – the same as the previous day. As of 8pm last night, there are three confirmed Covid-19 patients in ICU at the hospital.
Professor Philip Nolan, Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said: “Incidence is high and increasing. Test positivity has increased across all age groups. The level of socialisation in the population is at its greatest level since the pandemic began. While we have high vaccine uptake in our country, it is not the only intervention needed to suppress waves of infection. Infection prevention action in your own daily life will help limit transmission in your own circles, as well as the wider community.”
