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The COVID-19 pandemic remains a threat to global public health and notwithstanding recent progress in respect of the roll out of vaccines, the situation continues to be closely monitored and managed by each country including Ireland. Variant strains of the virus now in circulation have presented additional concern in the fight against the virus and reinforced the need for compliance with public health measures; please see guidance in respect of the COVID-19 variants of concern from the HPSC (Health Protection Surveillance Centre).
Progress continues to be made in the roll out of the vaccination programme to suppress new case numbers particularly in the elderly and medically vulnerable demographic groups. The Government has continued to ease the restrictions and re-open society in line with progress being made with the vaccine roll out and other indices. Government has published guidance for the next few months in accordance with its plan for living with COVID-19, COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 - The Path Ahead.
Remember COVID has not gone away, continue to comply with public health infection control measures whether you have been vaccinated or not.
Minding your Mental Health
AGS recognises that this is a challenging time for all as we strive to continue to keep our people and communities safe. While we continue to follow the guidance to stay safe and reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is also important that we keep our mental wellbeing in mind.
Advice and tips from the Department of Health on looking after your mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic
Keep an eye out for COVID-19 symptoms
Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
You may not have all of these symptoms. It can take up to 14 days for symptoms to show. They can be similar to symptoms of cold and flu.
An early diagnosis from your GP means you can get the help you need and avoid spreading the virus, if you have it.
If you have symptoms, do not attend a vaccination appointment if you have one scheduled. You can call HSE Live on 1850 24 1850 to request a new appointment date.
Read more at HSE Coronavirus
COVID-19 explainer: Close contact vs casual contact
Close contact can mean:
If you are a close contact you need to get tested for COVID-19 and restrict your movements.
You may have been in contact with someone with COVID-19, but you do not meet the definition to be a close contact. This is a casual contact.
If you're a casual contact, you do not need to restrict your movements. Continue to follow the advice on how to protect yourself and others. If you're a casual contact, you do not need to be tested.