A prominent North Clare GP is warning that a second wave of coronavirus is entirely possible.
Phase one of the easing of restrictions got underway today, with thousands of people returning to work, but health experts are warning people not to become complacent in the weeks ahead.
About 20,000 retail staff returned to work across the country today, as phase one of the easing of some restrictions came into force.
Under the Government’s roadmap, hardware, electrical, IT and phone shops are allowed to open, while outdoor workers, like construction staff, can also return to employment.
Opticians and hearing test centres can also open from today. Many of these have been working behind closed doors for emergency cases only.
That was the case for Specsavers in Ennis.
Store Manager John O’Farrell says a number of changes have been brought in to allow for social distancing from today, but he admits it’s a very unusual time.
The Ballyvaughan’s Farmers’ Market is opening from Saturday, but with the 5-kilometre restrictions still in place Secretary Gary Hetzler says they’re anticipating smaller crowds.
The re-opening comes against the backdrop of a fall in new cases of COVID-19.
Yesterday saw the confirmation of 64 new diagnoses, the lowest level since March.
No new cases were recorded in Clare, leaving the total number this county at 314.
From today, everyone over the age of 13 is being advised to wear face masks in indoor public places like shops and public transport.
But Dr Michael Kelleher, who is a member of the IMO’s GP committee, says it’s vital that people keep following all advice to ensure another spike in cases is prevented.
Marese O’Sullivan, Clare FM, first for local news
