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To listen to the radio during the week there was a fair amount of congratulatory talks and virtual pats on the back in Cork. The reason? COVID-19 infections are low here, as is the incidence rate.
While this is undoubtedly good news, the situation could easily change, and in a few weeks we could be where Dublin is now, with an eye on the barrel of a regional lockdown.
The government has introduced regional closures before, as it did with three Midland counties in August. From the way the figures are being run in Dublin, there is a strong possibility that the central government could impose further restrictions on the capital.
So how is the situation on the ground in Cork?
Well, to compare, let’s see first Dublin and Limerick.
Between On August 28 and September 9, Dublin recorded 986 cases of COVID-19. The 14-day incidence rate for the same period was 73.2 per 100,000.
During the same time period, Limerick recorded 129 positive cases ; their 14-day incidence rate was slightly lower in 66.2.
It is worth remembering that Dublin and Limerick have the highest incidence rate of COVID-19 in 14 days. In addition, health chiefs warn that the number of coronavirus cases in the capital could begin to double every 14 days.
Then how cork compare? Well, in a word, better. Better. For now, that is.
During the same 14-day period from the end of August to September 9, 36 cases of COVID-19 confirmed . The 14-day incidence rate was 6.4.
The conclusion is quite obvious: the incidence rate in Cork is low. But the key is to keep it low.
As cliche as it may be, we’re all in this together, and Limerick or Dublin, or both, having to endure a localized blockade hurts the country and affects families and communities across the island.
Another crucial piece of information to keep in mind: as is private residences are the new hot spots for COVID-19 according to the Center for Health Protection Surveillance.
It would also serve as a reminder of what is around the corner in case we let our guard down.
So perhaps less virtual pats on the back and continuous vigilance is what is most needed.
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