As Covid-19 case numbers continue on their escalation path, the decision has been taken by Government, following extensive deliberation with NPHET, to move the country to a Level 5 restriction strategy for a period of six weeks.
From a local perspective, as of midnight on October 19, there were an additional 24 confirmed Covid-19 cases in County Westmeath.
This figure has increased the 14 day incidence rate per 100,000 population within the county to 336.8 (an increase of 178 pertaining to the relevant figure last week ), above the national average of 279.3 and accounts for 299 new Covid-19 cases from the period October 5-18.
As of October 19, Westmeath is placed fifth on the 14 day incidence rate chart for the period from October 5-18.
With the imposition of Level 5 restrictions from midnight on Wednesday night, what will this entail?
•Under Level 5 restrictions, you are not permitted to travel more than 5km from your home (only in exceptional circumstances - visit www.gov.ie for a relevant detailed list )
•Schools and creches will remain open
•Visitors are not permitted to your home or garden. although it is possible to meet with one other household in an outdoor setting such as a park
•Organised indoor and outdoor events are not permitted to proceed. Parks and outdoor playgrounds can remain open with additional protective measures implemented.
•Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools will close. Elite sports and inter-county GAA fixtures may proceed and non-contact training can continue for school aged children, outdoors in pods of 15
•Bars, cafes and restaurants can only provide a takeaway or delivery service
•Essential retail outlets will remain open, namely supermarkets, pharmacies and those businesses selling products necessary for the upkeep and functioning of households
•Up to 25 persons can attend funerals while religious services will take place online
•Those aged 70 and over must exercise personal judgement with regard to the extent to which they engage with others and in activities outside the household.
For further information relating to the imposition of Covid-19 Level 5 restrictions, visit www.gov.ie
