In a continuation of the worryingly upward trend, 121 new cases of Coronavirus have been diagnosed in Ireland today.
This is an increase on the 785 cases from yesterday and takes the overall total to 906 – with four deaths.
This is a large increase but this can be expected due to the large increase in the amount of people who are being tested.
There are now six confirmed cases of the Coronavirus in Laois.
Figures released moments ago show that as of Friday March 20 which examines the first 712 cases of the virus in Ireland, Laois has shown an increase from the previous day.
Today’s Data
Fuel prices at four year low
The cost of a litre of fuel in Ireland has fallen dramatically in the past month, according to figures released by AA Ireland, with the Coronavirus outbreak and a significant drop in crude oil costs, among the key factors behind the drop at the pumps.
According to the AA’s latest monthly study of fuel prices across the country, a litre of petrol now costs 126.5c on average a decrease of over 15c compared to last month’s average price of 141.9c.
A litre of petrol is now at the lowest level recorded since April 2016.
UK and Italy record further deaths
The death toll from Covid-19 in Italy has risen by 651 to 5,476, an increase of 13.5% but down on Saturday’s figure when 793 people died. That puts the mortality rate there somewhere around 9.25%.
47 more people have died in the United Kingdom after testing positive for the coronavirus, bringing the total number of deaths to 281, the UK government has announced. That leaves them with a mortality rate of 5%.
Northern Ireland
The number of cases in the north has risen by 20 to 128 with two deaths.
Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann has been speaking about the second death from Covid-19 in the North. He said: “This heart-breaking news should bring it home to every one of us that coronavirus is a real and present danger across our community.”
Test waiting times
There are around 40,000 people waiting to be tested for COVID-19 the HSE has said. It expects this backlog to be tackled as more testing sites come into operation next week.
Around 13,000 people have now been tested for the virus here so far.
Coronavirus Myths
As yet, there is no cure currently for COVID-19.
So people suggesting/selling special remedies like vitamin C, garlic, home cures, drinking bleach, or putting half an onion in rooms around the house are – well you know don’t you?
The World Health Organisation has advice on some of these urban legends.
Cuisle Centre
The Coronavirus outbreak has led to the Cuisle Centre in Portlaoise closing.
They said: “The Covid-19 restrictions mean that we have had to temporarily close our doors, but we are still here to support you and your family.
“As we know this is a confusing time for our patients as chemotherapy and surgery are been rescheduled – we will be continuing to give you support and guidance over the phone.
“Just call 0578681492 and leave your name, number and a brief message and we will get back to you. You can also contact us on email: info@cuislecancersupportcentre.ie or messenger us through facebook.
“Stay safe everyone, wash your hands and take a little exercise.”
Important information
Symptoms of Covid-19 include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Breathing difficulties.
Further resources:
- The HSE: Official advice on the coronavirus in Ireland. This is being updated based on the number of confirmed cases and how the virus spreads in Ireland.
- The Department of Foreign Affairs: Official advice on where to avoid travelling to. Also a resource for those who are abroad.
- The World Health Organization (WHO): The UN agency on global public health publishes statements and daily situation reports based on the latest data.
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC): The EU agency on the number of cases, deaths and how it’s spreading in Europe.
- The Johns Hopkins University map: A heat map of the confirmed cases across the world.
A helpline for older people who are concerned about the coronavirus has been launched by Alone. The number is 0818 222 024, and it’s open Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm.
SEE ALSO – Gardai in Laois plead with public as some ignore social distancing request
