'Every citizen practicing social distancing is doing their country a service': Warning against complacency as latest figures announced 

The Chief Medical Officer in the Department of Health, Dr Tony Holohan, warned against complacency as he announced there were 126 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in the country today, bringing the total number of cases in Ireland to  683.

The HSE is now working rapidly to identify any contacts the patients may have had, to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread.

“Now is not the time for complacency," Dr Holohan said. "Every citizen who is practicing social distancing, who is taking precautions to limit the spread of this virus, is doing their country a service.

“The Department of Health has issued outdoor social distancing guidelines for everyone to follow. While we encourage people to exercise outside and maintain a healthy lifestyle, social distancing measures will continue to be paramount.”

Dr Hololan also gave further details and breakdown of the 438 cases that were confirmed on Wednesday, of which 66 were in Cork. 

"40% of the cases, 137 in total are community acquired, 73 relate to contact with confirmed cases, 21%, and 132 or 39% are travel-related with the remainder still under investigation," he said. 

"There are now 114 of those 438 who are healthcare workers, in and around one in four."