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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Colin Brennan

One county breaks huge milestone and leads charge out of Level Five lockdown

Leitrim has recorded just 22 new virus cases in the past two weeks, setting an example for the rest of the country.

With the national 14-day incidence rate now at 212.7, Leitrim's is currently just 68.7.

For context, the rate in Cavan is the highest at 364.9, followed by Meath at 323.

But while The Wild Rose County is making huge strides in combating the virus, it's expected that Level Five restrictions will remain in place for the full six weeks.

As it stands, there are 41 in intensive care nationwide, and 310 people with Covid-19 in hospitals.

An Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD at Leinster House on Kildare Street, Dublin. (Collins Photo Agency)

Taoiseach Micheál Martin reportedly told a closed online meeting of Fianna Fáil TDs, senators and MEPs on Wednesday evening that he hopes the coalition will be able to take decisive action.

This will come after the reproductive rate of Covid-19 goes down significantly over the duration of the latest restrictions.

Dr Tony Holohan said "improvements are being made due to efforts of people across Ireland".

"However, we must remember that maintaining this downward trend is now the most crucial thing," he said.

"The value of our progress depends on continuing the safe behaviour that got us to this position.

"I urge everyone to keep it up, to ensure these initial trends continue."

Dr. Tony Holohan , Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, of NPHET, (Collins Photos)

Chief Medical Officer Holohan urged the public to remain vigilant and follow public health advice.

"Every piece of public health advice we have given from the outset of this pandemic is designed to keep everyone protected from the impact of Covid-19," he said.

"If you are a close contact of a confirmed case, you are asked to restrict your movements for 14 days and to attend for your two free Covid-19 tests, one on day 0 and one on day 7.

"This is because as an identified close contact, you have come into contact with the virus. It may take some time for this to become apparent, or for you to become infectious.

"By staying at home for this entire 14-day period, you are helping to stop the spread of this dangerous disease. In following this important guidance, you are helping to bring this virus right back down to where we all need it to be and playing your part in this national effort."

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