Derry doctor Paul Molloy warns 'lots of people will die' if spread of COVID-19 is not stopped

Paul Molloy, a GP at the Clarendon Medical Practice, urged people to adhere strictly to the new social distancing guidelines to try to save lives.

Dr. Molloy, in a lengthy post on his Facebook page, said he was all set for the start of the new COVID centre in Altnagelvin today Wednesday.

He outlined what the public should expect if they become symptomatic with COVID-19 during the next several weeks.

"If you phone your doctor, your doctor or nurse in the practice will ask you a series of questions.

"Most people will be asked to stay at home and you might be given advice or an antibiotic. Some patients will be so ill that they will be transferred straight to hospital.

"Others based on the questions and assessment will be asked to go to the COVID centre. It will be in the out-of-hours in out patients."

Dr. Molloy said that once people arrive at the centre they will be asked to put on a mask before having their pulse taken by a nurse and being examined by a doctor.

"Due to risks the doctor might not look in your throat or listen to your chest. It will be only if really needed. The doctor will be wearing protective equipment.

"Again some people will be given antibiotics or paracetamol and go home. Some people will get admitted," he explained.

The local GP urged people to help the local service from becoming overwhelmed by staying at home and maintaining social distancing at all times.

"There is a possibility that very quickly within the next few weeks, there may be lots of people sent home that would normally be admitted. That could even include people sent home to die.

"Lots of people are going to die unless we stop the spread of the virus. Thanks please please stay in and keep your distance from others. Let’s try and keep the dead to a minimum," he said.