The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) will hold important discussions on Thursday due to the nationwide surge in virus transmission.

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Ireland's top public health official has stated that there is no single metric that will lead to the imposition of further restrictions.

He emphasized that there is no specific number of Covid cases or hospitalizations that would trigger additional rules.

The NPHET will hold crucial discussions on Thursday amid the nationwide surge in transmission.

Public health officials will review the impact of the restrictions introduced last week and consider the possibility of additional measures.

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) mentioned that it will take some time to see the effects of the new rules in curbing the spread of the disease.

He noted that further measures might be needed in the future, but in the immediate term, the high number of cases needs to be reduced.

Regarding immunization, the CMO expressed hope that the benefit of a booster to the population will last longer than the initial dose, but longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this.

He stressed the importance of reducing transmission levels to a point where the public health system can detect and respond to local surges in the disease early.

In an interview, Dr.

Holohan said he did not have a specific figure in mind that would lead to recommending more Covid restrictions.

He explained that decisions are based on an assessment of all impacts, not just a particular number.

The evidence and science will be reviewed again on Thursday to provide guidance and advice to the government.

Dr.

Holohan reminded that the measures mandated by the government last week only came into effect recently, and it is too soon to assess their impact.

He acknowledged that some people might not believe that closing hospitality at midnight will significantly suppress the virus spread.

However, he emphasized that the government has taken more actions, including advising people to limit social interactions unless absolutely necessary.

This is a serious situation with significant public health impacts and secondary effects on the healthcare system, particularly hospitals.

He added that there is anecdotal evidence of people reducing social interactions.

The total volume of socialization needs to be reduced, and measures in workplaces and hospitality, along with other government mandates, will significantly cut social interactions.

When asked if everything will stay open until Christmas, including hospitality and schools, the CMO said it depends on how things progress in the coming period.

He noted that the majority of infections in December will occur in people who are not yet infected.

He emphasized that individuals have the power to prevent infection and should not rely solely on the government to take action.