Ireland’s biggest daily increase of 424 new cases of COVID-19 has been confirmed by the Department of Health as the death rate passed 100.
22 further deaths have occurred involving diagnosed COVID-19 patients. Eleven men and eleven women were among those to die and they were located in the east (18), south (3) and west (1). It brings to 120 the total amount of Coronavirus related deaths in Ireland, the median age of which is 82.
As of 1pm on Thursday, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been informed of 424 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.
Analysis of Wednesday’s 3,655 cases stated that community transmission remained as the highest factor for spreading the virus (61%) followed by close contact (23%) and travel abroad (16%). 1,039 of these persons hospitalised, 948 were associated with healthcare workers and 148 were admitted to ICU. 626 cases stem from 171 clusters.
Dublin has the highest number of cases at 2,077 (57% of all cases) followed by Cork with 292 cases (8%). Clare has fifty confirmed cases, this includes those that have recovered but does not factor in those waiting for test results.
“We are concerned with the number of clusters identified in nursing homes. We have identified a range of measures, working with the HSE. We need to see continuous actions being taken to reduce the risk of transmission in nursing home and long-term residential facilities,” Chief Medical Officer with the Department of Health, Dr Tony Holohan stated.
Restriction measures were acknowledged as “a tough adjustment” but one which “save lives” by Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Ronan Glynn. We will continue to protect vulnerable groups against this virus, by staying home and following public health advice. These efforts result in lives saved. Anyone over 70 years of age should remain cocooned as per public health advice, and for essential food and prescription shopping, call on family, friends or services to help you. Over 70’s should not be leaving home.”
Dr. Colm Henry, Clinical Chief Officer, HSE, added “There is now a clear picture of more severe illness in older people. This underlines the importance of our advice on cocooning and requires all of us to support any vulnerable people who find themselves in isolation.”
