Covid warning as kids head back to school

Of 347 currently being treated in hospital for Covid infection, 60 are being treated in intensive care.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has urged Covid caution and potential infection awareness among families ahead of children and young people preparing to return to education.

Dr Holohan made the comments against a backdrop of latest reports that confirm 1,706 new cases of Covid-19 in Ireland, with 347 people being treated for the virus in hospital, up 23 on yesterday's figures.

Of those currently being treated in hospital for infection, 60 are being treated in intensive care.

In his statement, released this afternoon, Dr Holohan said school "preparations are being made at a time when our country is experiencing a very high incidence of Covid-19".

"It is important to remember that our experience to date is that the school environment was not a major source of disease transmission and that school reopening did not have a significant effect on the incidence of COVID-19 in children. In fact, any increase in incidence among children is often linked to the events that occur around school as much as the events that occur within school."

Conscious of the "considerable efforts" already made by many families, parents and school staff so that schools can reopen, he went on to say It is "important" that as a country and community Ireland continues to "socialise safely" and adhere to public health measures- wash hands or use hand sanitiser, wear a mask if this is what is recommended in your school environment, and socially distance and avoid crowds.

"It is important to be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19 to be aware of and do not send your child to school if they display any. These are cough, fever, headache, sore throat and blocked or runny nose. If your child displays any of these symptoms, support them to isolate and contact your GP for advice and to arrange a test if appropriate. These measures will prevent transmission of the virus to others," said Dr Holohan.