The health system is facing its biggest challenge of the pandemic as a tsunami of infections has led to record numbers in our hospitals.
The extra measures announced by Government today for schools, construction, retail and travel mark something of a last throw of the dice, to try and contain and reverse the current surge in cases.
In the last 24 hours, around 6,800 swabs have tested positive for coronavirus, while the dramatic increase in hospitalisations and rising ICU cases are a significant concern.
However, the current situation remains manageable and anyone who needs to attend their Emergency Department for emergency care should do so.