Covid-19 latest: Almost 3 in 4 cases in Cork and Kerry linked with clusters 

Almost three in every four cases of Covid-19 reported in Cork and Kerry in the last two weeks were linked with clusters.

Figures published by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) show that in the 14-days up to October 1st, 566 cases of Covid-19 were reported in the community healthcare organisation (CHO) 4 area which comprises Cork and Kerry.

Of these, 415 cases, or 73 per cent, were associated with clusters.

Thirty-six of the cases, or 6 per cent, were reported among health care workers.

The HPSC report shows the mean age of cases reported in Cork and Kerry during the 14-day period was 35 years.

Of the 566 cases reported in the region in the last two weeks, 527 of the cases were in Cork while 39 cases were in Kerry.

Nationally, 4,805 cases were reported in the 14-day period with just over 50 per cent of these cases (2,420 cases) linked with clusters.

There were 304 cases reported among health care workers.

A total of 139 people have been hospitalised, with ten cases admitted to critical care units. 

Six of the cases have died. 

Last night, Dr. Ronan Glynn, Acting Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health urged people to action to help reduce the spread of the virus.

“The situation nationally is a matter of serious concern and NPHET is now recommending that no more than 2 households should meet at any given time. It is vital that everyone - families, friends and neighbours - limit the opportunities this virus has to move from person to person and stop the spread of the disease across households. 

"Behave as though you have the virus and keep yourself and those around you safe – don’t take a risk by organising or attending gatherings with more than one other household,” he said.