THERE HAS been a significant rise in the number of travel-related coronavirus cases in the Republic of Ireland.
After a number of days with low cases and no new deaths, the Republic of Ireland yesterday recorded six new deaths and 23 new cases-- the highest figures in several weeks.
At a time where the debate on closing borders is raging and Irish people have been urged not to go on holidays abroad, rather remain in Ireland for the summer, the rise in travel-related cases is particularly worrying.
Dr Ronan Glynn, Acting Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health, yesterday told a press briefing that "15 of today's confirmed cases are directly or indirectly related to travel".
"NPHET today reiterates that all non-essential travel overseas should be avoided."
Earlier this month, the Government decided to delay the publishing of a 'Green List' of countries which will be open for non-essential travel-- namely, for holidays.
The plans were pushed back until 20 July after a concerning rise in cases both at home and abroad, and after images spread of revellers not adhering to social distancing in the streets after pubs opened in Ireland.
With pubs reopening, complacency amongst young people is a particular concern to the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).
Acting CMO Dr Ronan Glynn told the press briefing yesterday that out of the 23 new cases, "77% of cases... are under 25 years of age.
"Covid-19 is extremely infectious and none of us are immune. It is important that we all continue to follow public health advice and risk assess our actions."
Professor Philip Nolan, chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group, said there is "an immediate need for us all to take care and caution in our decisions and actions".
Speaking yesterday, he revealed that the R number is now at or above 1, meaning each infected person is infecting at least one other person with the virus, allowing it to spread quickly through the community.
