People are advised when meeting indoors to avoid poorly ventilated spaces and to keep windows open.
The Department of Health has issued a statement urging people to “socialise safely” this Easter weekend as 4,195 new Covid-19 cases have been reported.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre was notified on Thursday (14 April) of 1,936 PCR-confirmed cases of the virus.
In addition, on Wednesday, 2,259 people registered a positive Covid antigen test through the HSE portal.
As of 8am on Thursday, 904 patients with the virus are hospitalised, of which 57 are in intensive care.
“With the Easter bank holiday approaching, it is important that we all continue to follow the public health advice to socialise safely and maintain our focus on protecting those most vulnerable to the severe effects of Covid-19, as well as ourselves,” the Department wrote.
It said that anyone with symptoms of the virus should self-isolate until 48 hours after the symptoms have substantially or fully resolved.
Meanwhile, anyone diagnosed with Covid should self-isolate for seven days from the date of the onset of symptoms, or – if asymptomatic – the date of the first positive test.
“Mask wearing is advised on public transport and in healthcare settings,” the Department added.
“Anyone who wishes to wear a mask should not be discouraged from doing so.
“Individuals who are vulnerable to Covid-19 are further advised to be aware of the risk associated with activities they may choose to engage in and to take measures to protect themselves – consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings like social gatherings and similar activities and events.
“Continue to practise good hand and respiratory hygiene by washing and sanitising hands regularly and coughing/sneezing into your elbow. Maintain a physical distance where possible.
“Meet up outdoors if you can. When meeting indoors, avoid poorly ventilated spaces and keep windows open.”
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