Covid cases increase in all areas of Cork

Covid cases have doubled or tripled in all areas of Cork since the end of May, data from the HSE shows.

In the 22nd week of this year, there were five cases in North Cork, increasing to eight the next week, doubling to 16 the week after, then decreasing to 10 and then rising again to 15 last week.

In West Cork, there were five cases five weeks ago, eight the following week, then 11, 13, and 10 in subsequent weeks.

There were 28 covid cases in the week of May 27 in Cork city, with these numbers increasing weekly to 39, 70, 84 and then 87 last week.

A HSE spokesperson told The Echo: “HSE Public Health Area D (Cork and Kerry) has seen an increase in the number of laboratory-confirmed cases of covid-19 cases over the past four weeks.

“While there was no spring peak in cases in 2024, we are preparing for a potential rise in cases over the coming months.

“While the number of cases has increased overall, there has been no increase in hospitalisations, ICU cases and deaths related to covid-19.

“This current wave is a reminder that covid-19 continues to circulate throughout the year.

“The covid-19 variant JN.1 remains the dominant lineage in Ireland. However, there is no evidence that any variant is associated with more severe disease.”

Data is assessed across the three Local Health Offices (LHO) across Cork and the spokesperson said that, according to recent LHO area data, they “have noted only minor differences in incidence rates between each LHO” when taking into account population and cases.

The spokesperson added: “Vaccines are proven to be the best protection against serious illness from covid-19.

“The spring booster’ is currently available to people aged 80 and over and those aged 5+ with a weak immune system. To get your free vaccine, please contact your GP or local pharmacy.”