"This pandemic isn’t over just because we are tired of living with it."

Health officials will meet today following the spike in recorded Covid-19 cases over the weekend. There was a sharp increase in coronavirus cases in Ireland over the past few days, with over 1,000 new cases recorded in the last two weeks. The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) will meet today to discuss the increase and consider any further recommendations to reduce the spread of the virus. 200 new cases were reported on Saturday while 66 new infections were recorded on Sunday. Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said last night that although the reopening of the country has allowed people to see their loves ones again, “some are doing this recklessly and undermining the efforts of the majority of people around the country who are following public health advice. "This cannot continue. This pandemic isn’t over just because we are tired of living with it." Dr Glynn added: “We must all learn to behave and interact in a new way over the coming months so that Covid-19 cannot take root again in our communities. "Please avoid crowds, reduce your social contacts, keep your distance from others, wash your hands and wear face coverings." The NPHET will meet today (Monday) to discuss further recommendations and the reopening of schools this month. Dr Glynn said the team will "make any necessary recommendations to government which are required to protect the vulnerable, continue with the resumption of healthcare services and ensure the safe reopening of our schools.” The total number of Covid-19 cases in Ireland stands at 27,257. The death toll is 1,774.