Fewer than five cases of Covid-19 have been identified in Mayo, according to the most recent figures released by the National Public Emergency Team (NPET ) - at the time of this issue of the Mayo Advertiser going to print. The number of cases is expected to rise over the coming days and weeks, with the NPET releasing daily updates each evening shortly before 9pm.
A Covid-19 testing centre in the county town be is expected to be operational today, as one of nine across the west, which also includes the naval ship LE WB Yeats docked in Galway Harbour.
Communities across Mayo have rallied to help out, with numerous groups offering their assistance to help out those in need across the county - you can find a list of groups offering support in our Community Diary page.
The Meitheal spirit shown by the people of the county has been praised by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Brendan Mulroy, who said it is all about everyone working together, listening to the proper advice and staying safe. "Local councillors will be able to assist them and point them in the right direction.
"There are so many people and organisations that have put themselves forward to help, it's a great thing. If there was ever a case of why people want to live in Ireland and stay in Ireland, this is the proof of it - everyone is just there to help each other out as best they can."
Minister Michael Ring said that the COVID-19 outbreak presents a challenge for individuals and communities across Ireland. In these exceptional circumstances, all community members have a role to play in helping those who may require additional support.
“I note from social media in recent days the numerous offers of help from people within our communities to assist more vulnerable people. I very much welcome this, and we are working to coordinate and support these efforts. At the same time, I would strongly advise communities and volunteers to follow the most recent advices from the HSE and ensure that this is the message being delivered across our community network."
Fianna Fáil TD Dara Calleary echoed the sentiments of everyone working together to get through this time, telling the Mayo Advertiser: "I am appealing to anyone who can offer help at any level to do so. The HSE has has launched its recruitment camaign 'Be on call for Ireland'.
"With a surge in positive #covid19 cases anticipated in the coming weeks, the HSE are asking healthcare personnel from across all disciplines to register. I am respectfully asking anyone who can help to please consider doing so.
"The majority of the major supermarkets have now introduced priority shopping schedules for the elderly and carers. Please respect these schedules and adhere to whatever procedures each individual store has put in place.
"Please also consider greater use of your local grocery - who needs support at this time - and always always please offer respect and courtesy to all staff members in these premises.
"If you are available to assist with local organisations such as Meals on Wheels or St Vincent de Paul please make contact with your local branch - cooks, cleaners, drivers will all be required in the coming weeks. On an even more local and personal level, look out for elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours and offer to help them in any way you can."
Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway Walsh said we have the kindness, care and compassion that are deeply rooted in the Irish nature to help us to prevail as we navigate through the Covid-19 crisis. "It has been so heartening to see how our communities have come together in these trying times. Social distancing, being positive on social media and, of course, helping one another in every possible way will serve us well.
"Consideration and respect for those on the frontline, keeping our hospitals and health services open, home care workers, keeping essential shops and chemists open and keeping fuel suppliers and other vital services open means we must rigidly adhere to guidelines.
"We are very fortunate to have the best healthcare professionals in the world. Their powers have been enhanced by the return of over 20,000 doctors, nurses and health specialists to battle this crisis.
The chief executive of Mayo County Council Peter Hynes told the Mayo Advertiser that they are working together with the HSE during the crisis and have offered the use of any of their facilities that are not being currently used in the fight against the virus.
