HSE West continues to see a gradual decrease in cases across the region with a 14 day incidence up to Saturday last (27th Feb) of 238 per 100,000 across the region. This can be broken down to Galway 278 per 100,000; Mayo 226 per 100,000 and Roscommon 103 per 100,000.
However, Galway city has experienced a significant outbreak among young adults 18-24 years giving rise to 427 cases by end of yesterday (Sun). This outbreak which evolved over a period of 20 days is still ongoing and includes up to 200 households.
Dr. Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health, HSE West states, “COVID-19 continues to spread whenever it gets the opportunity. Currently with the predominant BII7 variant, transmissibility has increased by 70%. House parties or social congregations are the perfect breeding ground for spread of the infection. In addition attack rates in household contacts have increased from a rate of approximately 20% with the original variant, to almost 33% which is thought to be attributable to the B117 variant. I urge all young people to take care, stay home, avoid house parties and inter-household mixing.
If you have symptoms you are asked to self-isolate in your room immediately. Then call your doctor and a test will be organised. This will protect your household and close contacts and prevent further spread of the infection.”
Last week (22nd to 28th Feb) inclusive, COVID-19 tests carried out across Community Healthcare West was 1,890 tests in county Galway, 674 in county Mayo and 321 in county Roscommon.
