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Tonight another 183 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed.
Meanwhile, sadly another six deaths have been reported.
The latest figures were announced by the National Public Health Emergencies Team, which met today to discuss the current Covid-19 crisis following the easing of restrictions.
The country received much-needed relief after Level Five restrictions were eased this week before the Christmas period.
Retailers across the country welcomed customers this week after a six-week shutdown due to strict public health measures in place.
Meanwhile, pubs serving food restaurants may open their doors once more tomorrow as additional restrictions are eased.
The introduction of Level 3 was a relief for many, yet there are repeated fears that the country could face another lockdown in January if cases spike over the Christmas period.
However, speaking today, HSE Chief Executive Paul Reid said “more closings” may not be needed in the new year “if people follow all precautions” if they mix with others over the next several weeks.
“Don’t just wish people a safe Christmas, practice what will make it a safe Christmas.”
He added that the HSE will be “watching very carefully” during the third phase “which presents the greatest risk to the HSE and health services” due to an anticipated level of intergenerational mixing.
Meanwhile, health chiefs and the government are facing questions about when a Covid-19 vaccine will be released in Ireland after the UK announced it had approved one developed by Pfizer.
While a vaccine has yet to be cleared in Ireland, Taoiseach Micheal Martin has pointed out that a vaccine could be rolled out in January next year.
Speaking today, Paul Reid added that Ireland’s Vaccine Task Force is “on its way” to deliver a strategy to the Taoiseach and the Government by December 11.
“It is realistic for Ireland to start its vaccination program in the first days of January 2021,” he said.
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