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There has been a reported 68 cases of COVID-19 in Kerry, an increase of just two since yesterday (Tuesday), while a further 14 patients diagnosed in Ireland have since died.

Nationally, as of 1pm, today (Wednesday), 212 new confirmed cases have been confirmed. In total across the country there’s 3,447 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Of those who died:

• 10 deaths are located in the east, four in the South
• The patients included seven females and seven males.
• Eight patients were reported as having underlying health conditions.

There have now been 85 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland.

The median age of deaths in Ireland is 82.

Today’s data from HPSC, (2,990 cases), reveals:

• 48% are male and 50% are female, with 134 clusters involving 563 cases
• Median age of confirmed cases is 48 years
• 834 cases (28%) have been hospitalised
• Of those hospitalised, 126 cases have been admitted to ICU
• 752 cases (25%) are associated with healthcare workers
• Dublin has the highest number of cases at 1,645 (55% of all cases) followed by Cork with 255 cases (8%)
• Of those for whom transmission status is known: community transmission accounts for 60%, close contact accounts for 21%, travel abroad accounts for 18%

Research conducted on behalf of the Department of Health shows that 65% of people in Ireland are engaging in digital interactions with family and friends.

The nationally representative online survey of 1,270 adults conducted today, and which will be conducted twice weekly, reveals:

• 89% believe current social distancing measures are appropriate
• 94% are confident in their ability to adhere to new restrictions
• 85% feel they have adapted to changes since COVID-19 and know the steps to take if they develop symptoms

“Our research suggests that one in three people are worried about their health, with three out of four worried about the health of their families and friends,” Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said.

“People are taking action to look after their well-being. Two thirds of people are conversing with family and friend’s by using phone and Internet.

“Restrictions do not mean you stop maintaining your relationships or your health. Adapt your hobbies; go for walks, exercise and do the things that maintain well-being within the limits of physical distancing and public health advice.

“I can confirm that expanded contact tracing for all confirmed cases for the 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms, as decided by National Public Health Emergency Team will commence this week. This will reduce transmission of the virus.”

Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE said the public health messaging remains the same for all patients awaiting testing.

“Assume you have COVID-19 and isolate. Each and every one of you can break the chain of transmission of the virus, save lives and reduce illness among vulnerable groups.”