Zero new deaths related to Covid-19 reported in Ireland for the first time since March

“The number of new cases and reported deaths over the past week indicates that we have suppressed Covid-19 as a country"

There have been no new deaths reported in Ireland to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre today for the first time in two months.

59 confirmed cases of Covid-19 were reported on Monday morning. There is now a total of 24,698 confirmed cases of the virus in Ireland.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar took to twitter to address the nation on the good news:

'Significant milestone today. First day with no reported #Covid19 deaths since March 21st. This is a day of hope. We will prevail.'

Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; “The number of new cases and reported deaths over the past week indicates that we have suppressed Covid-19 as a country. It has taken strict measures to achieve this. It will take another week to see any effect on disease incidence that might arise from the easing of measures in Phase 1.”

Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said;

“While NPHET continues to monitor the spread of Covid-19, both here in Ireland and internationally, ultimately it is the collective behaviours of each individual which will determine the course of this disease. The importance of regular hand washing, physical distance and cough/sneeze etiquette cannot be underestimated.”

Dr Siobhán Ni Bhriain, Consultant Psychiatrist and HSE Integrated Care Lead, said; “If a person is experiencing symptoms of any condition, including symptoms associated with conditions for which there are screening programmes, it is important to make early contact with you doctor and not await a routine screening appointment.

"GP clinics have remained open throughout the pandemic and will continue to be available to the public in these circumstances.”

The total number of Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland now stands at 1,606.

As Minister for Health Simon Harris said:

"We must never ever lose sight of the fact that behind every figure is a real person, and a loved person whose loss is very felt."

Monday May 18 saw the country enter into Phase One of easing lockdown restrictions with many retailers reopening and many returning to work. You can see a breakdown of Phase One including health and safety measures here.

Phase Two is set to begin on June 8th, with the Third Phase beginning on June 29th, the Fourth on July 20th and the last phase on August 10th.