Dublin is experiencing a worrying spike in cases.

The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) is meeting today to discuss the unfolding situation in the capital, with experts expected to deliver a stern warning about reducing social contacts later today.

A further 84 new cases of Covid-19 were on Wednesday evening and three more people have died from the disease.

Of the new cases, 51 are in Dublin, six are in Offaly, five are in Kildare and the remaining 22 cases have been recorded across Cork, Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Meath, Roscommon, Tipp, Westmeath and Wicklow.

Speaking to Morning Ireland this morning, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was “very concerned” with the latest spike in cases.

“I think people are tired and fatigued with this virus,” he told the show, adding that he hoped “lessons from the past” will prevent a further large outbreak of coronavirus in nursing homes.

While he would not be pressed on the issue of localised lockdowns, Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said he would encourage the public to cancel any family gatherings such as christening and communion parties, where multiple people from different households would be interacting for the coming weeks.

The next 7 days is really important. In particular, people in Dublin and Limerick need to assume that #COVID19 is circulating.

1. Reduce your social contacts
2. Take a step back and keep your distance from others
3. Do not drop your guard just because you know someone

— Dr Ronan Glynn (@ronan_glynn) September 7, 2020

Meanwhile, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly warned that we still don’t fully understand the long-term effects of coronavirus.

“We are still learning about Covid-19.” Minister Donnelly tweeted.

“There is more information emerging on the prolonged side effects of the disease months after diagnosis. This is not a normal cold or flu. The safest option for all is to stop its spread by social distancing, limiting contacts, washing hands.”