Update from College Secretary and Director of College Health to staff and students

12 February 2021

12 February 2021

Dear students and colleagues

Thankfully, this week the COVID-19 case numbers and hospitalisations reduced, but the numbers are still too high, according to the Chair of NPHET's Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group, Professor Philip Nolan. It is expected that it will be at least six weeks before cases of COVID-19 drop to around 100 a day. Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland earlier today, Professor Nolan said both suppressing the virus and increasing protection from the vaccine will come together. The bottom line is as people collectively drive case numbers down, it gives the Government options to reopen key priorities.

Ripple effect
We cannot underestimate the risks associated with a single incidence of COVID-19 and how it can spread quickly. So we all need to continue to take all preventative measures on campus and at home to stop the spread of the virus to keep one another safe. This includes hand washing, cough etiquette, face coverings and physical distancing. Thank you for continuing with these efforts.

Mask up – even outside!
As well as wearing face coverings indoors at all teaching and learning events, in all the Libraries and in internal public spaces on campus, you are urged to wear face coverings outside in public spaces too when in groups of two or more and where social distancing of 2m cannot be maintained. This will help reduce the spread of COVID-19. It is important to remember not to congregate in groups, either outside or inside, for example outside the Library, the Buttery, or if you have had a laboratory session.

Stay safe. Stay well. Bígí slán agus sábháilte.

Kind regards,

John Coman, Secretary to the College
Seán Ó Comáin, Rúnaí an Choláiste

Dr David McGrath, Director, College Health Service
An Dr Daithi Mac Craith, Stiúrthóir, Seirbhís Sláinte an Choláiste