THE NUMBER of coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland has more than doubled overnight, as the Department of Health confirm that 10 more people have died.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) was informed yesterday, March 26, of the deaths of an additional ten people who had contracted coronavirus.
The victims are three women and seven men; with nine patients being treated in the east of the country and one in the south.
Their sad passing brings the total number of coronavirus-related deaths in the Republic of Ireland to 19; Northern Ireland has reported 10 deaths out of 241 confirmed cases.
The Department of Health also announced a further 255 new confirmed cases in the Republic yesterday, bringing the total to 1,819.
The HSE is working rapidly to trace any close contacts the newly confirmed cases may have had.
Statistics released by the HPSC has shown that:
Almost a quarter (23%) of all confirmed cases are healthcare workers-- this is down from a third last week.
47 people have been admitted for treatment in Intensive Care Units.
Dublin remains the area with the highest number of cases at 774 (56%) followed by Cork with 154 cases (11%).
New researched conducted behalf of the Department of Health shows that 77% of people are more worried about the health of their family and friends than they are for themselves.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said:
"We are only at the beginning of the curve. We need every citizen to heed the advice and measures put in place to protect all of us.”
Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said:
"We are aware COVID-19 is impacting and reshaping daily life for everyone. We can see from the data that people are most concerned about their family and friends. If you look after yourself, restrict movement and follow advice, you will ultimately protect them.”
Dr. Breda Smyth, HSE Director of Public Health, said:
"Protection from COVID-19 is literally in our hands. It is important that we continue to wash our hands and practice cough and sneeze hygiene constantly.”
Dr Colm Henry, HSE Chief Clinical Officer, said:
"While the HSE is engaged in extensive preparations for COVID-19, the more we as individuals take personal responsibility to interrupt the spread of the virus, the greater impact we can have on protecting our vulnerable people and saving lives.”
