*Deserted streets of Ennis. Photograph: John Mangan
Ireland’s biggest daily increase of COVID-19 cases has been confirmed with an additional 402 made known by health officials on Thursday bringing the country’s total to 3,849 with no increase on the most recent figures for Co Clare.
A further thirteen individuals (4 females and 9 males) have died from COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland. The deaths were located in the east (9), west (3) and south (1), ten of them were reported as having underlying health conditions with 82 the median age.
To date, 134 people on the island of Ireland have lost their lives due to Coronavirus, 98 of whom have been in the Republic.
As of 1pm on Thursday, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre stated there was 402 extra cases in the Republic bringing the total to 3,849.
Clare’s figures have increased once again rising from 45 to 49 as of midnight on Tuesday. A number of individuals in the county are waiting on test results.
Data on Tuesday’s 3,282 cases showed there to be 160 clusters involving 659 of these. 932 individuals have been admitted to hospital with 148 sent to ICU, 841 cases are associated with healthcare workers. Community transmission remains the biggest transmission status at 60% followed by close contact (23%) and travel abroad (17%).
Speaking at Thursday’s press briefing, Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer with the Department of Health clarified that of the 148 cases admitted to ICU, 14 have died, 109 remain there and 25 have been discharged, their median age is 62.
“I would also like to highlight a worrying scene I witnessed during my visit to hospital on Tuesday evening; empty waiting rooms and empty beds. While protecting yourself from COVID-19 is a priority, no one should ignore signs that they may need medical attention for other ailments such as lumps, chest pain or other concerns. Please do not ignore any symptom outside of COVID-19. The hospitals are there for all ailments, not just COVID-19,” he added.
Holohan outlined that restrictive measures may have to be extended. “We won’t be surprised if we come towards April 12th and find we need to extend them”. Officials have confirmed they will provide more clarity next week.
