Virus spread slows in Galway before next easing of restrictions

The spread of Coronavirus in Galway has slowed again – ahead of a further easing of lockdown restrictions including larger funerals, reopening of marts and some shops, and a return to outdoor group sports training.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre recorded 21 new cases of Covid-19 in Galway in the week up to Sunday, May 31.

About 40 patients, who are confirmed or suspected Covid-19 cases, are currently being treated in Galway’s two public hospitals, University Hospital Galway and Portiuncula in Ballinasloe.

As of last Sunday, some 482 people had tested positive for Covid-19 in Galway. That was two less than the previous week, and represents the lowest actual and percentage (4.5%) weekly increase in positive cases in Galway since the HSE began releasing county-by-county stats in March.

From Monday next, June 8, marts will reopen where social distancing can be maintained and greater attendances at funerals will be allowed.

People can once again take part in outdoor sporting and fitness activities, involving team sports training in small groups – but not matches – where social distancing can be maintained, and where there is no contact.

The Government advice in Phase Two of the five-phase roadmap remains to ‘stay at home’ and avoid unnecessary journeys where possible.

In this phase, up to four people may visit another household for a short period of time but everyone must keep at least two metres apart from people they don’t live with.

Those who are ‘cocooning’ can have a small number of visitors to their home, but the visitors must wear gloves, masks and keep two metres apart.

See full story in this week’s Connacht Tribune, on sale in shops now. You can also add the paper to your online grocery delivery; you can purchase a digital edition here, or you can have it delivered at no extra charge by An Post; full details are on this website.