“Presume that you will encounter Covid-19.”

The HSE has issued a warning to all Cork fans ahead of Sunday’s All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final against Limerick to be mindful of the reality of Covid-19.

Noting the high rate of community transmission in Ireland, the HSE has advised that anyone joining others to watch the match this weekend should “presume that you will encounter” the virus.

“We are all looking forward to Sunday’s game and hopefully to celebrations afterwards. We encourage everyone to remember to socialise safely – wear a mask in crowded places, and keep two metres from people not in your household,” said Dr. Philippa White a specialist registrar in public health medicine at the Department of Public Health HSE South.

“If you are in a crowded place, think about moving to somewhere less crowded and with good ventilation, so that you can enjoy the game in safety and comfort.”

She went on to say: “We have a very high rate of community transmission in most parts of Ireland right now, so if you are travelling to the match or watching it with others this weekend, you should presume that you will encounter Covid-19.

“That’s why it’s important to keep up with our protective measures, even if you’re vaccinated. And for anyone who is not vaccinated, please take extra care this weekend,” Dr White said. She further asked anyone who is showing symptoms of the virus to watch the match alone.

Yesterday, 1,818 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed nationwide.

Dr. White’s calls were echoed by the mayors of Cork and the County of Cork, Colm Kelleher and Gillian Coughlan.

In a statement issued on Friday morning, Kelleher said: “As we prepare for the return of the Liam MacCarthy Cup Leeside, I would encourage everyone to enjoy Sunday’s All-Ireland final safely.

“Please take heed of public health advice – we’ve come so far and still need to band together to protect the vulnerable people in our communities. Show your support and celebrate our great Cork team by ‘Painting the town red’ – get out and decorate your homes and light up your businesses and public buildings! Corcaigh Abú!”

Coughlan joined Kelleher in this morning’s statement, saying: “The entire county is behind our senior hurlers who are back in an All-Ireland final for the first time since 2013. It is Cork’s 50th final appearance and hopes are high that we will be able secure the Liam MacCarthy cup.

“Regardless of where you are enjoying the game, I hope that you will do so safely, continue to follow Covid-19 guidelines and show respect for fellow fans. Let’s show everyone what makes us so proud of being from Cork!”