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Up to 20 golfers who were on vacation in the Midlands tested positive for Covid-19, prompting the HSE to issue a circular detailing their movements to GPs practicing in the region.
The letter, sent Wednesday, explained that a group of 40 people had stayed at the Bridge House hotel in Tullamore, Co Offaly, between September 6 and 10.
While there, they played golf at Esker Hills and another club course.
Doctors were also informed that “some socialized in various places in the city,” specifically identifying three pubs and one restaurant.
Describing the situation as a “significant Covid-19 incident,” the letter went on to say that up to half of the group had subsequently tested positive for the virus.
As a result, close contacts have been identified and asked to restrict their movements. Up to 100 staff members at the hotel where the group stayed are being screened.
“All hotel residents, probably from other areas of the country, will be contacted to say they have been in contact with a case and to contact their GP if they develop Covid symptoms until September 24,” the circular said.
In a statement, the Bridge House Hotel said the health and safety of employees and guests was its number one priority.
“Since reopening, we have worked tirelessly to ensure a safe environment in line with government-wide public health guidelines, including those of the Department of Health and HSE.
“Unfortunately, however, we confirm that the HSE has notified us of a confirmed group in a group of guests who stayed at our hotel last week.
“We are working closely and cooperating fully with the HSE. All potential close contacts are being contacted by HSE. All staff members are also being examined as a precautionary measure.
“In the interest of health and safety, we have decided to temporarily close our hotel as an additional measure.”
No direct contact
Local doctors were informed that, as of Wednesday, the infection had been limited to the group in question. The letter does not identify where they come from.
“If, from testing, new notifications, and additional history, we determine that there is transmission of infection beyond this group, either to staff or guests, we can contact other people who have eaten at any of restaurants or drunk [hotel] bar and ask them to contact their GP if they develop symptoms, ”he said.
“This is likely to be a significant number of people in the Tullamore community and therefore you may receive inquiries.”
An HSE spokeswoman did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the content of the circular, which has been seen by The Irish Times. However, it said separately that it did not comment on individual cases.
Esker Hills owner Ray Molloy confirmed that 14 members of the group played the course on Monday, September 7, but as the clubhouse was closed due to Covid restrictions, they did not consume food or drink and had no direct contact with any. Golf Club staff.
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