New restrictions are on the way.

A further 518 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported in the past 24 hours, 53 in Cork, as infection rates soar around the country. No further deaths were reported.

Of the new cases reported this evening, 78 have been identified as community transmission. 134 of the patients are in Dublin, 53 in Cork, 49 in Limerick, 34 in Donegal, 32 in Meath and the remaining 216 cases are spread across 20 counties.

With every county in the Republic of Ireland now likely to be placed at Level 3 on the Government’s ‘Living with Covid-19’ risk rating, an announcement on the next steps is expected following an emergency meeting of the Cabinet this evening.

Reports suggest enhanced enforcement around house parties and large gatherings could be a key part of Level 3 plans, as community transmission continues to be a key issue in the spread of the disease.

‘Do not become distracted’ – Holohan

“We have seen in recent days a significant and concerning deterioration in the epidemiological situation nationally,” said Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan.

“It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months.

“Do not become distracted from the core public health messages; wash hands regularly, keep your distance, wear face coverings where appropriate, avoid crowded environments, cut your social contacts down to minimum levels, know the symptoms and isolate yourself and contact your GP immediately if you experience them.”

What would Level 3 look like for Cork?

The priority at Level 3 is to keep the country’s schools and childcare services open and minimise disruption in the workforce.

“This means that a number of services will be moved online and some businesses will be closed (for example museums and other indoor cultural venues). Additional restrictions will apply to restaurants and pubs.” according to the guidance.

In order to keep people safe, the public will be asked to reduce the number of contacts to a minimum and stay near home.