*Photograph: John Mangan
Co Clare is continuing to suppress the spread of COVID-19 with fewer than five cases recorded in Friday’s update from the Department of Health.
Only five other counties have a lower spread of the virus in the Republic of Ireland than Co Clare. A total of 46 positive cases have been diagnosed in the county over the past fortnight. 38.7 is the 14 day incidence rate per 100k of the population in Clare with the national equivalent at 78.3.
Nationally, 265 new cases are known. 84 of these are in Dublin, 28 in Louth, 27 in Limerick, 19 in Donegal, 15 in Wicklow, 15 in Galway and the remaining 77 cases are spread across 18 other counties.
Officials in the Health Protection Surveillance Centre were notified of six further deaths related to the virus on Friday.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan stated that the country was entering “an important phase” in its efforts to suppress the virus. “We have made significant progress and reduced transmission in our homes and communities, but it will take a consistent individual effort from everyone to keep up that momentum in coming weeks. The recent stabilisation in cases that we have experienced is fragile, but it is within our grasp to maximise our protection against the spread of COVID-19”.
As more businesses reopen under Level 3, Dr Ronan Glynn appealed to the public to take precautions. “If you are heading out this weekend, please make every effort to keep safe. Plan ahead, meet outside where possible and keep your contacts to a minimum. Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces and leave if your environment doesn’t feel safe,” the Deputy Chief Medical Officer commented.
Figures released on Friday have also revealed that Clare recorded no new cases on Wednesday.
Mayo 1478 (0)
Kerry 1342 (-2)
Monaghan 1267 (+11)
Wexford 1209 (0)
Offaly 1169 (0)
Kilkenny 1065 (+11)
Waterford 1053 (+6)
Laois 986 (0)
Roscommon 955 (+4)
Sligo 750 (+2)
Carlow 663 (+9)
Longford 661 (+2)
Leitrim 266 (0)#Covid_19 no new cases in 7/26 counties.— Páraic McMahon (@thepmanofficial) December 4, 2020
