PEOPLE in Cork have been asked to limit the number of people they come into contact with over the coming days as the city and county works to reverse the recent worrying growth in the numbers of Covid-19.

The HSE, Cork City Council, Cork County Council and an Garda Síochána are working together through emergency management structures to co-ordinate the community response to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.

In recent weeks, there has been a sharp increase in the number of cases detected through HSE testing, leading to the agencies to appeal to the people of Cork to work to reverse that trend as quickly as possible.

Dr Anne Sheahan, the acting director of Public Health HSE South (Cork and Kerry) explained that quick action now could bring the situation back under control.

“Cork has come from a low number of cases, and although the recent rise is worrying we still have time to get it back under control – if we all act right now.

The people of Cork have done great work over the last few months, and it’s that work which is giving us a small window of opportunity to turn things around.

Dr Sheahan added:

Here are the actions I am now asking everyone to take:

• See fewer people. I know that we want to live as normally as possible, but if we see fewer people now it gives us a greater chance of reining this in.

• Be really scrupulous about keeping your two metres distance from anyone that you don’t live with.If you have any symptoms or are worried at all, don’t hesitate – ring your GP and follow your GP’s advice.

• If your GP refers you for a test, then please isolate at home.

• If we in Public Health advise you to stay at home, then please follow that advice.

Chief Superintendent for the Cork City Garda Division, Barry McPolin said:

“In supporting the COVID-19 public health guidelines, we need everyone to double down on the tremendous efforts they have made here in Cork. We need everyone to limit the contact they have with each other. Whilst you may feel safe at home and think it’s ok to have friends over or have a party, you are putting your health, their health and everyone you come into contact with afterwards at risk. It is vital that you continue to play your part by limiting contact with others – this will save lives.”

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley said:

In light of the increase in positive Covid-19 cases across our communities it’s more important than ever that we hold firm, protect each other and follow the public health guidelines. Social distancing, wearing face coverings and handwashing play a crucial role. Limiting our number of contacts plays a vital role in reducing the spread of this virus and help our frontline health and emergency workers respond effectively. We can get through this together if we all do our part.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Joe Kavanagh said:

I ask the people of Cork City to step up their vigilance on Covid-19 precautions, to put an extra push on limiting their social contacts, observing hand and respiratory hygiene, and wearing their face coverings. Not only is this how we can stop the spread of the virus, it’s also a huge demonstration respect for yourself and for those you love. We can defeat this virus together if we pull together – Cork City’s community spirit kept us all going during the difficult months earlier this year and I have no doubt we can get through this surge in numbers keeping the health and safety of our loved ones and our communities in mind.

Notes:

The regional inter-agency emergency management group includes representatives from the local Department of Public Health; Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, the South South West Hospital Group; Cork City Council; Cork County Council and an Garda Siochana. The group has been meeting regularly since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis and all agencies are working to co-ordinate an effective local response.

• Cork County Council Covid 19 Community Call Helpline Freephone 1800 805 819, email [email protected] or text (085) 8709010
• Cork City Council Covid 19 Community Call Helpline 1800 222 226 email [email protected]

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