Covid-19 has not gone away

Earlier Yesterday, Minister for Health Simon Harris said today was an
important day as Covid-19 had not gone away. Strict restrictions to
stop the spread of the virus, which have been in place for more
than two months, are being eased today. However, speaking on
RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Minister Harris said we all need to approach
the coming weeks with a "collective sense of cop-on". Just because
we can go somewhere new, he said, does not mean we should go,
unless we really need to.
The government’s guidelines for those who are cocooning in Phase
One advises them to continue to follow the public health advice by
avoiding physical contact with other people and staying at home as
much as possible, except going out for exercise or a drive up to
5km. Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan did however say that it
would be appropriate for people in cocooning categories to meet
small socially-distanced groups outdoors from today.
During the past weeks, we have all taken monumental efforts to
keep Ireland’s frontline and essential workers, as well as those who
are most vulnerable, safe by staying home. This moving video
shows frontline staff joining together to give new meaning to
President Higgins’ inspirational words. You can get involved on
social media by commenting and sharing your personal message of
hope and solidarity. Include #HoldFirm and signpost to hse.ie for
current advice and information.
The Government has advised members of the public to wear face
coverings in some public spaces such as public transport and in
supermarkets. Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan added that
this is not a “silver bullet” to prevent spread of the virus, adding
that it is simply another measure to complement existing measures
such as hand hygiene.