Small group of musicians asked to self-isolate after contact with COVID-19 patient

Members of a small Irish musical group have been asked by the Health Service Executive to self-isolate until March 15 as a precautionary measure after coming in contact with the first confirmed case of Covid-19.

No new cases have been confirmed yet, and this measure is part of contact tracing by public health officials. The patient attended a community band session last Saturday over a two-hour period, leaving the other members as potential contacts who will be monitored over the next two weeks. Members of other bands who practice at the location have not been asked to self-isolate.

The patient's identity and precise location have not been revealed, but the HSE has confirmed that the patient is a student at a secondary school in the East of Ireland. Pupils and teachers are being monitored and the school will close for 14 days.

To be considered at-risk, you need to be within 15 minutes or more in the vicinity of an infected person within 1-2 metres. The HSE recommends washing hands regularly and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces to protect yourself. They have also stated that face masks are only necessary for those who have or may have the virus, those who are in close contact with someone who has or may have the virus or healthcare workers.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that the Covid-19 situation has been evolving, but there is still only one confirmed case in the Republic. He said that there will be no panic, but no complacency and the policy will continue to be one of containment.

Musicians around the world have cancelled gigs due to the outbreak, including the National who just cancelled their Tokyo dates for public safety reasons. Discussions have begun about potentially cancelling St. Patrick's Day celebrations to prevent a large outbreak, but no firm stances have yet been taken.