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The rate of Covid-19 infection in Dublin has increased, stated the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) in a letter to Stephen Donnelly, the Health Minister.
Dublin moved to level 3 restrictions three weeks ago in an attempt to stop the growing number of cases, but, as the country entered level 5, Nphet has written to the minister to tell him that while the national reproduction rate, or number R, is between 1.3 and 1.4, is higher in the capital.
It came as 1,066 other Covid-19 cases were announced, including 244 in Dublin, 104 in Galway and 98 in Cork.
The national incidence rate of 14 days per 100,000 also reached a record, surpassing 300 for the first time.
Elsewhere, several senators self-isolated after two positive tests among Seanad members.
It has also caused some disappointment in the government, but sources say that the next two to three weeks will be critical to combat the virus.
However, despite the economic and social costs of Tier 5, Ireland cannot pursue a herd immunity strategy to eradicate Covid-19 while protecting the most vulnerable, the CMO said.
Dr. Tony Holohan said there was “no substance in policy terms” to the idea, which proposes dropping the closures in favor of allowing the virus to spread in the community while establishing safeguards that, in theory, would protect the most vulnerable.
Dr Holohan, speaking as Ireland confirmed three more Covid deaths and 1,066 new cases, said the proposed idea would ask people to “spend indeterminate time indoors while many are in congregated settings,” and that most need interact with outsiders. .
Meanwhile, 11 people were arrested for public order offenses when an “anti-blockade” march in Dublin city turned violent. A full Garda operation was carried out from the afternoon in the capital when protesters gathered at O’Connell Bridge and then moved to East Wall Road, with the aim of shutting down Dublin Port, before returning to Grafton Street.
An investigation is currently underway focusing on the organizers of the protest and the advice of the Director of the Public Ministry is being sought.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris will describe his plan to monitor Covid-19 tomorrow.
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