A surge in new Covid-19 cases could threaten any significant easing of restrictions next month. School-related playdates and mixing of parents are also behind some of the worrying increase in coronavirus, public health officials warned last night. The National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) drew attention to the daily case count which was high at 520 again yesterday – there was also another Covid-related death reported. This was limited and the vast majority of parents are following public health rules. There is serious concern about any major easing of restrictions in the face of rising cases numbers and there are fears St Patrick’s Day celebrations will lead to a spike.

Source: Irish Independent March 23, 2021 02:57 UTC