DUBLIN: COVID-19 spreads in 10 counties, despite indications that the virus might be under control.
Concerns were raised after an increase in COVID-19 cases within 14 days in counties such as Donegal, Louth, Kerry, Carlow, Mayo, Port Leach, Waterford, Kilkenny, Wicklow and Tipperary, even after the level 5 restrictions had been imposed.
Meanwhile, the rate of virus infection has declined in the worst affected areas such as Cavan, Meath, Westmeath, Sligo, Galway and Cork.
COVID-19 infections are more likely to increase in elderly people, HSE warned GPs. They are advised to be vigilant and to review infections in the nursing home separately.
The guideline was issued by Dr Colm Henry, the clinical director of the HSE, amid indications that COVID prevalence is generally declining.
In Ireland, 416 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed yesterday. This brings the total number of virus cases in Ireland to 61,456.
The health ministry has confirmed that five more people have died from the virus, bringing the total number of deaths from COVID infection to 1,913.
Dr. Colm Henry pointed out that it would be a matter of concern to hospitalize people above the age of 65.
Globally, the European proportion of new cases is 38%.
He reminded that the general condition in the country is that COVID-19 infection can be severe in the elderly and the physically challenged, and hence special attention should be paid to diseases in nursing homes and others.