Covid-19 Ireland – Government set to consider the possibility of easing the isolation period for close contacts

The government is set to examine the easing of isolation rules for those in close contact with Covid-19.

The matter will be discussed by the Cabinet tomorrow after they receive public health advice.

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The public health advice is expected to be based on the latest guidance from the European Centers for Disease Prevention and Control.

This guidance allows for shorter isolation periods in cases where there is too much stress on the health care system and society.

However, the updated guidance from the ECDC comes with a warning that it is not proof.

If the Government changes its rules on close relationships based on this, it will require a follow-up arrangement with employers along with an updated media campaign.

CAUTION ACCESSORY

The Irish Trades Union Congress has called for a cautious approach to any change, warning that any change needs to be based on public health rather than business.

Spokesperson Dr Laura Bambrick told Newstalk: “Any relaxation of the close contact rule for closely related workers must be guided first and foremost by health advice community.

“Otherwise, what we will see happening is that we will alleviate short-term staffing problems but we will do nothing to reduce the infection rate.

“Decisions must be evidence-based. They must be guided by public health advice.”

She noted that we haven’t reached peak mid-Omicron cases yet, so we don’t know what the implications will be for the ICU.

She added: “Medical workers and our health system have been under extraordinary pressure over the past two years and that is why we must continue to be cautious at this time.”

GRIM MILESTONE

It came as Ireland announced it had confirmed one in a million Covid cases of the pandemic, with half of those cases reported in the past two months.

Health bosses announced 23,909 more Covid-19 cases yesterday because Taoiseach excludes mandatory vaccinations in Ireland.

But the head of Fianna Fail warned that it was important for people to be stabbed and given boosters.

Say in cork At St Vincent De Paul and Depaul’s launch of homeless services, including the transfer of seven facilities in the area to Depaul, Martin said that NPHET will be examining any issues related to vaccines and will occasionally give advice to the Government.

“I have been very clear that I am in favor of voluntary vaccination,” he said.

“Actually, we’ve done a very good job as a country. The first and second vaccination rates are 94%.

“There is a 63% rate for the boost campaign leading the European league table in terms of the boost campaign.

BIDDING BOASTER

“And again I want to tell you that it is important for everyone to get vaccinated.

“There are still people out there who can get vaccinated and you haven’t had a booster yet.

“It’s very important that they get a booster shot. It’s an important step people can take to prevent themselves from being hospitalized or admitted to the ICU.”

Speaking of the hospital sector and the impact of the 8pm closure on businesses, he said: “We want to give it another week or two.

“We have not peaked yet (with the latest wave of Covid-19) and the pandemic has had many twists and turns.

“But I believe that if we maintain the same focus, we can weather this wave.”