Twenty-three more deaths related to Covid-19 were reported by the Department of Health this evening, taking the total overall number of deaths from the disease in the Republic to 2,970.
The median age of those who died is 84 years and the age range is 61 to 99 years old.
Health officials also reported a total of 1,378 new cases, of which 85 are in Galway, where the 14-day incidence rate is now 892 cases per 100,000 people.
Speaking this evening, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said that while we are starting to make progress in reducing the level of the virus in the community, this is a critical time for all of us to hold firm to the public health advice.
“We must not let down our guard against this highly infectious disease and the risk it poses to ourselves and those most medically vulnerable to infection,” said Dr Tony Holohan.
“There is a huge volume of disease in the country and the recent surge in cases continues to place an unprecedented strain on ICUs, hospitals and other frontline healthcare services.
“The answer lies in driving down social contacts and congregation in all settings, including in workplaces.
“Everyone who can, should work from home where possible. For those of us who cannot work from home, it is essential to follow the public health advice in the workplace, such as the wearing of face coverings when moving around communal areas.
“We urge all employers to facilitate home working as much as possible and to ensure strict adherence to public health measures in the workplace.”
