THE TAOISEACH and Ireland's Chief Medical Officer are advising the public to wear face masks wherever they can - even if they're outside.
It was revealed this week that Ireland currently has the worst Covid-19 infection rate in the world.
In light of the news, Micheál Martin suggested that we should all "wear masks outdoors" in an attempt to combat the spread.
On Monday, CMO Dr Tony Holohan told reporters at a press briefing that he agreed with Martin's advice, and that it was a good recommendation to follow until Ireland's Covid situation has eased somewhat.
He suggested everyone should wear masks when outdoors for essential reasons, whether they're queuing for the shops or even exercising.
"While we are seeing the first glimmer of hope in respect of our daily case figures and positivity rates, the situation in hospitals and ICUs around the country continues to worsen day on day," said Dr Holohan.
"We know that hospitalisations occur some weeks after a confirmed case is notified, and mortality after that again.
"That means we are unfortunately set for a period of time where the situation gets worse before it gets better," he warned.
"The best way forward now is for all of us to stay at home. Staying at home and cutting your contacts right down to those in your immediate household is the one vital way we will protect our healthcare system as it struggles with the burden brought on by this surge in Covid-19 infections."
It was revealed on Tuesday that there are now a record number of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) with Covid-19 across Ireland.
As of this morning there are 158 people in ICU beds due to Covid-19 and a further 1,700 in hospital with the virus.
See More: Covid-19, Dr Tony Holohan, Face Masks, Micheál Martin
