Third Irish person dies from Covid-19 as number of confirmed cases rises to 557

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been informed that a patient diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland has died.

There have now been three deaths associated with Covid-19 in Ireland.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been informed of 191 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland today.

There are now 557 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland.

The HSE is now working rapidly to identify any contacts the patients may have had, to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread.

Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer in the Department of Health, said: "I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of this patient.

“It is too early to see any impact of our social distancing measures. This data underscores the importance of younger people to rigorously follow public health advice and social distancing measures.”

Dr Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health Medicine, HSE said: "Healthcare workers are at the frontline of this pandemic.

"While it is heartening to see social distancing measures taken seriously across society, this must continue in order to protect the most vulnerable and support our healthcare staff throughout this pandemic.”