The HSE has issued a Bank Holiday message asking the public to protect Kerry’s progress in reducing the incidence of COVID-19 this weekend.
Acting Director of Public Health in the HSE South, Dr Anne Sheahan said that public health experts understand that it’s very tempting to meet up indoors but asked people to 'Hold Firm' for another few weeks. All indoor interactions still carry risks, and the more people involved the greater the risk, Dr Sheahan warned.

“We are fortunate in this region to have so many wonderful outdoor amenities. Just remember that if you are meeting another household outdoors this weekend, please continue to keep a two-metre distance.”
The people of Kerry continue to make great progress in reducing the incidence of the virus, and acting Director of Public Health Dr Anne Sheahan has asked them to protect that progress over the May bank holiday weekend.
“Bank holidays are often a time when we meet up with friends or families indoors. This weekend, I’m asking you to remember that when it comes to stopping the spread of COVID-19, it’s always safer to be outdoors than indoors. Large indoor gatherings just aren’t possible yet, even though I am aware how difficult it is to stay apart.”
“If we continue to work together, I am hopeful that we will be able to enjoy more time with friends and family this summer, something that we haven’t been able to do for many months and which we all miss. I know that people of every age group are looking forward to socialising but it’s not yet safe or possible to meet up indoors as visits between households greatly speed up the spread of COVID-19. While the numbers of people vaccinated are increasing, we need to remember that many vulnerable people still don’t have a full level of protection,” she said.

STABLE

COVID-19 rates across Kerry remain stable, she added.
“This region is doing very well. There will be some bumps in the road, and it is inevitable that we will see occasional clusters. It’s really important that we focus on containing any such clusters, rather than blaming any community or individual. If everyone makes sure they are tested at the first sign of symptoms, and if everyone avoids risky indoor interactions, then we will continue to contain these inevitable outbreaks.”
Dr Sheahan said she was pleased this week to see some sporting activities return, including some outdoor training for children in non-contact pods of 15 children or fewer.
“I was very encouraged to see children returning to training outdoors, and I want to reassure parents and communities that as long as sensible precautions are in place, this is a relatively low-risk activity. This gradual return to normal life is important for us all, particularly young people. It’s important that we all continue to work together to protect the progress we have made,” she said.