Covid-19 latest: Department of Health confirm 212 new cases and 14 deaths

There were 212 new cases of Covid-19 in Ireland as of 1pm today, bringing the total number of cases in the Republic to 3,447. 

At the press briefing this evening, the National Public Health Emergency Team stated that that 14 patients diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland have died today. 

Ten of those deaths were located in the east and four in the South. 

The patients included seven females and seven males.

The press briefing was led by Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health following the news that Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, Dr Tony Holohan is currently in hospital, undergoing tests unrelated to Covid-19. 

Dr Holohan is expected to be released from hospital tomorrow and will return to work soon after.

Speaking today, Dr Glynn encouraged people to keep up physical exercise whilst complying with government directives.

"Our research suggests that 1 in 3 people are worried about their health, with 3 out of 4 worried about the health of their families and friends.

"People are taking action to look after their wellbeing. 

"Two thirds of people are conversing with family and friends by using phone and internet," he said.

"Restrictions do not mean you stop maintaining your relationships or your health. 

"Adapt your hobbies; go for walks, exercise and do the things that maintain wellbeing within the limits of physical distancing and public health advice," Dr Glynn continued.

Research conducted on behalf of the Department of Health shows that the overwhelming majority of people are in agreement with the action the government has taken to minimise the spread of Covid-19. 

89% believe current social distancing measures are appropriate; 94% are confident in their ability to adhere to new restrictions and 85% feel they have adapted to changes since Covid-19 and know the steps to take if they develop symptoms.

Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE urged people to stay at home to save lives. 

"The public health messaging remains the same for all patients awaiting testing. 

"Assume you have Covid-19 and isolate. 

"Each and every one of you can break the chain of transmission of the virus, save lives and reduce illness among vulnerable groups," he said.

So far, there have now been 85 Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland. 

The median age of deaths in Ireland is 82.