Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jun 06, 2024 6 months, 2 weeks, 1 day, 15 hours, 43 minutes ago
COVID-19-News: Ireland is experiencing an increase in Covid-19 activity, according to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC). Despite the rise in cases, there have been no ICU admissions or deaths reported in the last week, and no new variant of concern has been identified. A comprehensive overview of the current situation in Ireland is covered in this
COVID-19 News report.
COVID-19 on the Rise Again in Ireland
Increase in Covid-19 Cases
In the week leading up to June 2, there were 502 reported Covid-19 cases, a significant increase from the 306 cases reported the previous week. This rise is part of the usual pattern where increased waves are observed every three to five months. The last major waves occurred in December 2023 and January 2024. Spring and summer waves tend to be smaller than those in winter, but the current uptick is a cause for attention.
https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/surveillance/epidemiologyofcovid-19inirelandweeklyreports/
Several other European countries are also reporting similar increases in Covid-19 activity. According to Dr Éamonn O'Moore, Director of the National Health Protection Office, while the rise in cases may seem modest, the true scale could be larger due to current testing protocols.
The Predominant Variant: KP Variants
The new descendants of the JN.1 strain i.e. the KP variants suck as KP.1.1 and KP.2 remains the predominant variant in Ireland. Although no new variant of concern has been identified, these KP variants also known as FLiRT, has become well-established and accounts for nearly half of recent cases. While these variants may be better at evading immune protection from vaccines, there is no evidence at the moment to suggest they cause more severe disease.
Hospitalizations and Severity
The increase in Covid-19 cases has led to a rise in hospitalizations, although most patients are admitted for other illnesses and happen to test positive for Covid-19. As of the latest reports, there were 189 patients with the virus in hospitals, up from 149 two weeks earlier, with nine patients in intensive care, compared to five a fortnight ago.
The greater the number of infections, the higher the risk to vulnerable groups such as the immunocompromised and elderly. Although no increase in death rates or ICU admissions has been reported, the HPSC cautions that a substantial rise in cases could lead to more severe illnesses.
Testing and Vaccination
The Health Service Executive (HSE) no longer provides services for booking Covid-19 PCR tests or ordering antigen tests, as test centers were closed in March 2023. However, GPs can still request tests for patients. The spring Covid-19 booster is available until June 14 for those aged 80 and older, people aged five and older with weak immune syste
ms, and residents of long-term care facilities for older adults. These boosters are available from participating GPs and pharmacists.
Vaccine Uptake and Protection
High levels of protection from disease exist due to previous infections and vaccinations. However, vaccine uptake has declined. Between October and March, 40 patients were admitted to intensive care due to Covid-19 complications, 37 of whom had underlying conditions. Ten of these patients had not received a Covid vaccine in the previous six months.
The current vaccines have been effective against the JN.1 variant and are expected to provide protection against the FLiRT strains as well. Eligible individuals are reminded to take advantage of the spring booster before the rollout ends.
Symptoms of the FLiRT Variant
Symptoms of the FLiRT variant are similar to those of previous variants, including runny nose, sore throat, headache, fevers, cough, body aches, and shortness of breath. Despite a sense of complacency among the public, the HSE advises staying at home for five days if infected and avoiding contact with others, particularly those at higher risk. One can leave home if the symptoms have mostly or fully subsided for the last 48 hours, according to local health authorities!
Keeping Track of the Virus
Dr O'Moore emphasizes the importance of tracking the virus, as it constantly evolves. The message remains clear: take the offer of vaccines if you are in an eligible group. Continued vigilance and adherence to health guidelines are crucial in managing the ongoing presence of Covid-19 in our lives.
In conclusion, while the increase in Covid-19 cases in Ireland is a concern, the situation remains manageable with no new variant of concern and no recent increase in severe cases. Staying informed, getting vaccinated, and following public health advice are key to navigating this latest wave.
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