HSE issues updated list of ‘at-risk groups’ for Covid-19

An important update.

On Wednesday, the HSE updated the list of groups that are most at-risk of Covid-19. Over 100 people have now died from the virus on the island of Ireland, and we are fast-approaching 4,000 cases between Northern Ireland and the Republic. The list includes those who are residents of nursing homes. Several of the clusters of confirmed cases of coronavirus have been in nursing homes throughout the country. The at-risk category also applies to people with a range of medical conditions, including diabetes or cancer. Those considered to be at risk:

• are over 60
• have a long-term medical condition - for example, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, renal disease, liver disease or high blood pressure
• have a weak immune system (immunosuppressed)
• have a medical condition that can affect your breathing
• residents of nursing homes and other long-stay settings
• are in specialist disability care and are over 50 years of age or have an underlying health problem

The HSE further advises that "if someone you care for is in one of these high-risk groups, share this information with them. Make sure they understand how important it is they follow this advice." Those who are especially vulnerable have been advised to "cocoon." The HSE describes cocooning as "staying at home at all times and avoid face-to-face contact. Those who are cocooning should minimise all non-essential contact, even with other members of their household. As of Thursday (2 April), the general medical advice is for everyone to remain at home. People over 70 are especially vulnerable to the illness and are advised to cocoon. Further information can be found here.