"Recurring epidemic waves" predicted as restrictions eased

The lead medic in the Republic's fight against the coronavirus has warned of "recurring epidemic waves". The statement comes as a further 37 people with COVID-19 have died, bringing the total number in the Republic to 1,375.
In the North there were 14 deaths reported today from the Coronavirus bringing the total there to 418. 
Returning to the Republic, as of 11am Wednesday, May 6, the HPSC had been notified of 265 new confirmed cases of COVID-19. There is now a total of 22,248 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Republic.
Today’s data from the HPSC, as of midnight, Monday 4 May (21,908 cases), reveals that the number of confirmed cases in Cavan has increased by 15 to 709; while the number in Monaghan has edged up by three to 432. 
Looking nationally, of those 21,908 cases 57% are female and 43% are male; the median age of confirmed cases is 49 years; 2,878 cases (13%) have been hospitalised; Of those hospitalised, 373 cases have been admitted to ICU and 6,393 cases are associated with healthcare workers.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; “The World Health Organization has advised that a likely future scenario in the dynamic of COVID-19 is recurring epidemic waves interspersed with periods of low-level transmission.
“This means that when Ireland eases social distancing restrictions, we may have periods of time when the numbers of people infected increases significantly.
“This is why it is vitally important that easing of social distancing restrictions is accompanied by a high level of adherence to the fundamental, individual behaviours needed to guard against transmission of the virus. We have to adapt our behaviours in order to live safely with COVID-19.”
Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; “78% of people who have been diagnosed to date with COVID-19 have recovered. This is very welcome and in line with international experience, however, the course of this disease in any one individual remains unpredictable. It is important that we are all aware of the risks and know how to prevent its spread.”