Ireland has seen a large surge in the number of coronavirus cases today with 85 new cases confirmed.
Meanwhile one further person has tragically died due to Covid-19.
Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said today's jump in cases show's how quickly a resurgence of the virus can occur as he warned we are at a 'crucial point' in our battle against the virus.
Dr Glynn said: "Over the coming days it is vital that everyone continues to avoid large crowds, physically distance, wear face coverings where appropriate and wash hands regularly.
“COVID-19 is extremely infectious and no one is immune. Follow public health advice and stay vigilant.”
Why was there such a jump in cases today?
A breakdown of today's cases show:
- 53 cases are men / 32 are women
- 68% are under 45 years of age
- 26 cases are located in Kildare, 18 in Dublin, 11 in Clare, 9 in Laois, 7 in Limerick, 4 in Meath and the remainder are spread across 7 other counties
- 39% of today’s cases are associated with close contacts of a confirmed case
- Half are associated with outbreaks
It is also understood that 18 of today's cases were related to outbreaks at a factory in Kildare.
Professor Philip Nolan, Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group, said; “Over a two-day period Ireland moved from a relatively stable epidemiology to a significant pattern connected to outbreaks.
"We now need to be really careful and adhere to public health advice so we do not further spread the virus. We must remain vigilant to the disease if we are to control it at this point.”
