Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, expressed concern about the lack of attention paid to public health guidelines by the people of Ireland following the confirmation of 939 new cases of COVID-19 and three deaths.
Dr. Holohan warned that many people with COVID-19 symptoms or waiting for a test do not isolate themselves and there is no restriction to their movements.
He asked people to “Spread the word and make sure we all know what to do if we have contracted COVID-19 or if we have symptoms of COVID-19.”
Self-isolation means that people should stay indoors and avoid contact with other people in the home, including the elderly, Dr. Holohan said.
He warned that even though people feel they have no symptoms or are feeling well, they should be isolated for 10 days.
The CMO advised people to clean the room of those under observation with disinfectant every day and not to see visitors and not to attend work, school and public places.
“Self-isolation means staying indoors completely and avoiding contact with other people, including those you live with. Avoid contact with anyone, especially older people,” he added.
At the same time, he said he knew it would be difficult for people to isolate themselves for 10 days, but that these actions would help prevent the spread of COVID-19.