Attendees at the Garda press briefing to announce changes to the JoJo Dullard investigation have been warned that they may have come into contact with a Covid case. An unnamed Garda was awaiting Covid test results but decided to attend the briefing in Newbridge Town Hall, Co. Kildare anyway. The Garda tested positive for coronavirus.
How many people could be at risk?
Between 15 and 20 reporters, photographers and camera operators attended the event. Additionally, Gardaí, hall staff and members of JoJo Dullard’s family were packed into the room.
What Covid precautions were taken?
It’s believed that facemasks were worn and there were attempts to maintain physcial distancing but this wasn’t possible at all times with so many people in the room.
What are the HSE recommendations about Covid testing?
It’s fairly simple. If you are showing symptoms of Covid-19, you should self-isolate, call your doctor and arrange a Covid-19 test. You should maintain self-isolation insofar as possible until you have had your test. You should not return to normal social activity until you have received a negative result.
What’s happening now?
An inquiry is underway to determine how and why a Garda did not follow public health guidelines. The attendees at the event have been told to await contact from the HSE’s contact tracers and to speak with their GPs. The Garda’s Chief Medical Officer is liaising with the HSE on the inquiry.
