Everyone ‘must play their part’ to slow spread – Deputy CMO

In response to “many anecdotal stories” of people ignoring social distancing guidelines, Deputy Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Ronan Glynn has urged all of the public to play their part in protecting those most vulnerable to Covid-19.

“We are in an unprecedented global situation,” he told a press conference this evening. “Everyone in the country must play their part in protecting the most vulnerable and slowing down the spread of this disease.”

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) has today been informed that a patient diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland has died.

There have now been two deaths associated with Covid-19.

The HPSC has also been informed of 39 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland. 

·        29 males, 10 females 

·        21 are associated with the east of the country, 13 associated with the south, three associated with the north west, two cases associated with the west of Ireland.

There are now 129 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland. 

The HSE is working to identify any contacts the patients may have had, to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread. 

CMO Dr Tony Holohan said; “Firstly, I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of the patient who died today.

“It is up to every one of us to play our role in slowing down the spread of this disease. 

“Ireland is following ECDC guidelines in our approach to containing Covid-19. 

“Today’s increase in cases reinforces the necessity of the measures put in place last week, including hand and respiratory hygiene, social distancing, school closures and limiting the size of mass gatherings. 

“I urge every citizen to follow these measures to protect our people, especially the most vulnerable in our society.

“I note also the pressure our emergency services phonelines were under today.

“112/999 should only be used for emergencies, when an ambulance is required. This is not an advice line.

“If you have flu like symptoms, self isolate at home until Monday and visit hse.ie for advice. You can call your GP on Monday morning and they will decide if you need a test. Please only call 999 or GP out of hours for emergencies.”