The CMO has issued advice for the run-up to Christmas.
Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan has said Ireland is in a “very uncertain and unstable position” due to high Covid-19 incidence.
He made the comments as 4,115 new cases of the virus were confirmed in Ireland on Friday (10 December).
As of 8am on Friday, 511 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 110 are in ICU.
The @hpscireland has today been notified of 4,115* confirmed cases of #COVID19.
As of 8am today, 511 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 110 are in ICU.
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) December 10, 2021
“We are in a very uncertain and unstable position due to the high incidence of Covid-19 in Ireland driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant,” the CMO said in a statement accompanying the figures.
He stated that this is a matter of “very significant concern” as health officials wait for more evidence relating to the Omicron variant and “the impact it may have to emerge”.
“At the moment, based on the evidence available to us, we believe that the public health measures we are so familiar with will work to slow and stop the transmission of the Omicron variant, as well as the Delta variant,” the CMO added.
“Early indications suggest that a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine will offer good protection against infection from Delta and Omicron.
“If you are eligible for a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine, then please take the opportunity to receive your vaccine as soon as it is available to you.
“Similarly, if you are yet to receive a primary dose of Covid-19 vaccine then please come forward as soon as possible.”
We are in a very uncertain and unstable position due to the high incidence of #COVID19 in Ireland driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant.
— Dr Tony Holohan (@DrTonyHolohan) December 10, 2021
Holohan referenced the fact that in two weeks it will be Christmas Eve, stating that the public can take measures today and in the next few days that will “ensure the safest possible interaction with your loved ones” over the festive period.
He urged people to risk assess the environments they plan to be in over the next two weeks.
“Consider if they offer the opportunity to protect yourself with each layer of the public health advice,” the CMO explained.
Holohan also called on the public to:
- avoid crowds and reduce their contacts
- wear a mask, including in crowded outdoor environments
- maintain social distancing and if they feel unsafe in a setting, feel empowered to leave
- open windows and avoid poorly ventilated indoor spaces
- clean their hands regularly
Main image via Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie
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