Questions for tomorrow's briefing:

1. The scientific advisory group, SAGE, in the UK estimates that closing schools would reduce transmission more than any other single measure (reduce R by 0.2-0.5).

What does NPHET's modelling show?

#COVID19ireland
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-54514387

2. How many schools in ROI have had to fully close due to Covid19 outbreaks? 7? 8?

Why is this data not being provided to the public? And can it be, going forward?

#covid19ireland

3. How are "close contacts" being defined in cases in schools? What's the scientific basis for using a different definition?

Why aren't we following ECDC guidance & treating anyone who was in a classroom with a confirmed case for >15mins a close contact?
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/objectives-covid-19-testing-school-settings

4. When will NPHET address the fact that the risk of transmission in schools increases as cases rise?

The CDC in the US produced a range of indicators - under their indicators, many schools in Ireland are now at "highest risk of transmission in school".
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s0915-dynamic-school-decision-making.html

5. Does NPHET accept that the aerosol transmission of Covid19 occurs indoors? The CDC, WHO & UK Govt all acknowledge this but it has yet to be addressed here.

When will they clearly communicate this to the public & issue clear ventilation guidance for schools, nursing homes etc?