With the rate of COVID-19 cases declining in the 19-24 age-group, the HSE has today (Tuesday) praised third-level students for their efforts to help reduce the spread of infection. Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Anne Sheahan, confirmed that the rate of COVID-19 is declining in this particular age-group in Cork and Kerry and is now at a similar level to the general population.

“This tells us that this age-group, including third-level students, have made huge efforts in recent weeks to stick to the tough but necessary measures which stop the spread of COVID-19 including not socialising, physical distancing and wearing masks,” Dr Sheahan said.

She thanked students and young people for their efforts, and added that the current restrictions which prevent normal socialising are particularly difficult for young people.

“This is a very big ask of young people, we’ve had to ask them to give up so much at a very important stage of life. I want to thank these young people for their efforts. By giving up socialising and by taking the hard decision not to interact with your social groups, you have saved lives and are contributing to the falling levels of COVID-19 in the South,” she said.

While the rates of  COVID-19 continue to fall, Dr Sheahan warned that everyone still needs to continue to stick with the restrictions in order to continue this positive trend.

“Together, we have turned the tide on the third wave of COVID-19 in Cork and Kerry, and I want to thank the student population for the part they have played in that. Unfortunately, I need to ask you to keep it up so that we make the most of this chance to drive infection rates as low as possible. This is a true community effort and it is reassuring to see that students and young people continue to play their part,” she said.

The Department of Public Health (HSE South) has linked with student representatives and third-level institutions in recent months as part of local efforts to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, and Dr Sheahan said this collaboration has been very effective.

“We have linked with student representatives in recent months in Cork and Kerry, and have been very impressed by the supports they have put in place to assist students missing out on the social interaction which are such an important part of student life.”