Nothing is official yet, but the NPHET (National Public Health Emergency Team) believes that the current lockdown in Ireland could last until next May… unless infection rates drop significantly before then. Dr. Mary Favier, representative of the Irish General Practitioners Council, stated that the country “is not doing enough and there is still too much movement.” This situation is deemed unacceptable as Ireland now records the highest infection rate in Europe and the world!
The Government Blames Some Parts of the Population for Lax Behavior
NPHET Considers a Full 4-Month Lockdown if Overcrowding Continues
It was a promising story… now turning into a nightmare. While Ireland was once praised as a model in managing the Covid-19 crisis, the country now has the worst infection rate worldwide. This situation developed stealthily during the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. It took less than 15 days to go from being a role model to the worst performer. The situation is now complex.
According to Dr. Favier, Irish roads currently see more traffic than in March 2020. Far too many Irish people have abandoned remote work. Life remains particularly active, despite the government’s clear requests to slow down, stay home as much as possible, avoid non-essential travel, and keep children at home.
For Irish government scientists, one thing is certain: this third wave could be the longest and hardest to slow down. It will be impossible to overcome without full cooperation from the Irish public.
The message is clear: Irish people are urged to act responsibly… otherwise, the lockdown could last up to 4 months! An unthinkable situation for the population.
Meanwhile, hospitals are under pressure but managing the crisis and vaccination schedule as best as they can. It is planned that the vast majority of Irish people will be vaccinated within nine months. This program aims to achieve national herd immunity… and allow life to return to normal!
In any case, scientists are hoping for an easing of the situation by late spring 2021. A bright spot that might allow travel within the country again… provided travelers have a vaccine passport (nothing official yet, but European countries seem to be moving toward this system). Fingers crossed!
