27 new cases of coronavirus in Ireland; 70 now in total

IT was confirmed today by the Department of Health that there are 27 new cases in Ireland bringing the total number of cases to 70 in the Republic. 

Most of the new cases are as a result of local transmission with just two confirmed as community transmission. Three are associated with travel.

The Echo reported yesterday that a patient admitted to Cork University Hospital (CUH), who had tested positive for COVID-19, has been discharged after making a full recovery.

The patient had experienced a mild-flu like illness.

It is understood they were discharged on Tuesday following two negative tests for the illness.

Health Minister Simon Harris has confirmed the country has entered the delay phase of its response to the virus.

That means the infection is being transmitted between members of the community rather than limited to those who have been to Italy or other blighted regions or their close contacts.

The drastic steps aim to reduce the peak impact of the virus and slow its spread, relieving pressure on the health system.

Acting Taoiseach Varadkar said many more people in Ireland would fall ill with the infection.

And he added: "Unfortunately we must face the tragic reality that some people will die.

"The virus is all over the world, it will continue to spread but it can be slowed."