A World Health Organisation adviser has called on the Government to allow a controlled spread of COVID-19 among younger people.

Several medical experts have been appearing before the Dáil’s coronavirus committee.

Among them is Sweden's former chief epidemiologist, Johann Giesecke, from the WHO's strategic and technical advisory group for infectious hazards.

He told the committee that the Government should allow controlled spread of the virus among people under 60.

He said officials should concentrate on the old and frail, with frequent tests of staff and residents in care homes.

Dr Giesecke has also advised the Government not to build its COVID strategy around hopes for a possible vaccine.

He says there may be a long wait for it, and that it may not be effective in those who need it most.

Infectious diseases professor Sam McConkey, who also appeared before the committee, told Newstalk that he disagrees with Dr Giesecke’s advice.

“This idea that you can segregate the old form the young is not a reality that can actually be effected,” he said.

“We are all mixing together inevitably for care needs because the older haven’t got the physical ability to look after themselves and need help and care from many of us.

“So, there are particularly vulnerable older people who need care from younger people.”

Dr Giesecke has also urged the Government to be wary of authoritarian, un-democratic decisions by authorities during the pandemic.