Seventy-nine new cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed by the Department of Health this evening, but there have been no further Covid related deaths.
None of the 79 cases are in Galway, where the total number of cases remains 509 after one new case was confirmed yesterday.
Today’s new cases are in 13 counties – 43 are in Dublin, 9 in Kildare, 6 in Cork, 6 in Tipperary and the remaining 15 cases are in Clare, Donegal, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Mayo, Roscommon, Wexford and Wicklow.
Of those, 39 are men and 40 are women, while 73% are under 45 years of age.
Thirty cases are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case.
NPHET’s acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said thanked the people of Kildare, Laois and Offaly.
“You have shown an incredible example of solidarity and social responsibility by following the enhanced public health advice for your region,” he said.
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“Your actions have saved lives. The epidemiological situation in Kildare means that we must extend the public health measures for a further two weeks.
“While there is some cause for optimism, the 7 and 14 day incidence rates in Kildare remain very high. Evidence suggests that the measures are working, but more time is required to reduce the number of cases in Kildare.
“We as a nation must show solidarity with Kildare in our collective efforts, especially over the next two weeks, by working together to suppress this virus. We can protect each other by following the public health advice.
“I am asking all households across Ireland to play your part, reduce your social contacts, wash your hands, keep a 2 metres distance from each other and wear a face covering in shops and on public transport. These actions are vital to protect our families and safeguard those who are most vulnerable to the disease.”
