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PEOPLE who rely on getting a private Covid-19 test as a “quick fix” way to give themselves the go-ahead for family gatherings on Christmas Day have been warned that they may not contract the virus.
SE chief Paul Reid said the test only applies to one point in time and may not detect the virus due to an incubation period.
It occurs when many young people in particular, without symptoms, are planning to get tested in advance as a form of reassurance, particularly if they feel they have been exposed to the virus and may be meeting vulnerable family members.
However, they have been warned not to lower their guard and to continue to follow physical distancing, the use of masks and other public health measures.
HSE Clinical Director Dr. Colm Henry said the best way for people to protect themselves and others is to “avoid crowded indoor environments and reduce contact” in the lead up to Christmas Day.
Cases of the virus among those over the age of 85 remain high.
The HSE report reported that, starting next week, couples of pregnant women will be able to accompany them to abnormality scans at the maternity hospital.
The ban in place since the start of the pandemic is being lifted, but will be kept under review if there are signs of increased risk.
People with possible symptoms on Christmas Day and the rest of the holiday period can call a GP and get tested.
Reid said there has been a slow but downward trend in hospitalizations for Covid-19 patients in recent days and 203 were being treated this morning, with a slight increase to 37 in patients needing intensive care.
However, there are still concerns that the annual surge in hospitals after Christmas, combined with an increase in seriously ill Covid-19 patients, will put services under pressure this year.
But so far no case of flu has been confirmed, which eases the tension.
Dr. Henry said that people’s daily habits to protect themselves against Covid-19 had contributed to the absence of the flu.
Referring to the plans to implement the vaccine, Mr. Reid said that HSE is purchasing an IT system to allow monitoring and oversight of the administration of the vaccines.
There are also nine ultra-cold refrigerators, as well as vehicles equipped to transport vaccines, ready.
HSE Director of Operations Ann O’Connor said the need assessment waiting list for children with a disability should be approved in the first quarter of next year.
A € 7.5 million fund is being earmarked to reduce backlog and significant progress is being made.
The plan is to launch a national network for child disabilities.
Meanwhile, it was also confirmed that there is an increase in presentations from people with mental health problems.
Additionally, plans are being implemented to make the nasal spray influenza vaccine available to children 12 years and older due to lack of acceptance in younger age groups.
Online editors
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