Statement from the National Public Health Emergency Team - First meeting of the Expert Advisory Group takes place
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From: Department of Health
- Published on: 5 February 2020
- Last updated on: 6 February 2020
The first meeting of the Coronavirus Expert Advisory Group took place today, at the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC), in Dublin 1.
This is a sub group of the National Public Health Emergency Team which has been meeting regularly in response to novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
The Expert Advisory Group, chaired by Dr Cillian de Gascun, Laboratory Director at the National Virus Reference Laboratory is a multidisciplinary group with experts from all relevant specialities.
Speaking on the establishment of the Expert Advisory Group, Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, said:
“The Expert Advisory Group will monitor and review national and international research and developments in relation to Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) and provide expert advice to the National Public Health Emergency Team, the Health Service Executive and others, as appropriate.
“It is important to note that the Group is made up of experts from across the disciplines bringing their multifaceted expertise to bear on Ireland’s ongoing preparedness.”
Dr Cillian de Gascun, Chair of the Expert Advisory Group, said:
“The Expert Advisory Group will play a key role in reviewing current advice and guidance on 2019-nCoV preparedness and response, identify gaps, and provide clear, evidence-based expert advice on preparedness and response to the National Public Health Emergency Team."
ENDS
Notes to the Editor:
To date, there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Ireland.
Ireland is well positioned to detect and respond to a case of novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) that might arise here.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) website is updated daily at 1.00pm with the latest information about the novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
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Expert Advisory Group Membership