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Dr. Tony Holohan has warned people to “check” their Christmas plans after a spike in new cases.
Tonight it was confirmed that a total of 938 people tested positive for Covid-19 in Ireland, while 13 more deaths were confirmed.
And experts have said that the most infectious mutant strain of the virus is “likely” in Ireland.
Dr Cillian De Gascun from the National Virus Reference Laboratory said: “Preliminary data would suggest, based on a selection of samples tested over the weekend, that the new UK variant is present in Ireland.
“However, given the timing of the samples tested, it would appear that the new variant is not solely responsible for the recent increase in the number of cases seen in Ireland.”
(Image: Gareth Chaney / Collins Photos)
He added that based on preliminary testing of samples, the new strain is found “predominantly in the east of the country.”
However, he said more tests will be needed, and results are expected in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Medical Director Dr. Tony Holohan has asked the public to “review” his Christmas plans.
He said: “The NPHET met today and reviewed the current epidemiological situation and has made recommendations to the government.
“All the indicators of the disease are increasing and increasing rapidly. Our level of concern continues to rise. We must do everything we can, individually and collectively, to change the course of this disease.
“Review your Christmas plans to ensure that social contacts are limited and that hand hygiene, physical distance, ventilation and face covering measures are implemented if you must have visitors in your home.”
While Dr. Ronan Glynn, deputy medical director, added: “The epidemiological situation reviewed today is the most serious since last March.
“People must act at all times as if they or the people they come in contact with are infectious. The disease has spread across the country and all age groups, we must act now to protect each other.”
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