‘No Kissing, No Hugging’ Warns Expert As Phase 2 Begins In Ireland Today

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Phase two on the roadmap to reopening Ireland begins today.

A hopeful day for the country as we see more freedom in movement, the reopening of our retail sector and the ability to reunite with loved ones in our homes.

However, remembering to adhere to public health guidelines is still crucial and health experts are urging people to keep their distance when visiting other households.

Professor Sam McConkey, from the Department of International Health and Tropical Medicine at the RCSI, said:

“We really don’t want touch-related greetings and we don’t want intimate greetings where people are getting very close.”

And as phase two allows up to six people to make short visits to other households, he continued by reminding people that although difficult, “no kissing, no hugging and no shaking hands” is still advised.

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In order to prevent further spread of Covid-19 or see a surge in cases again, experts are hoping that people remember to play their part and know that visiting guests still have to adhere to the two-metre distancing rule.

“Outdoor meetings are preferable to indoor meetings. If you are meeting indoors, keep it to an hour or less,” noted Simon Harris.

He also advised that people keep a list of who they’re in contact with when indoors, remain in a well ventilated room, sanitise, and remember proper etiquette – no sneezing and coughing.

You can read all the details on phase two here plus a list of the shops that are reopening this week here.

• Covid19