A further 1,491 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported by the Department of Health today.
There are 193 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID as of this morning. Of those, there are 28 in serious condition who have been admitted to the ICU.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan emphasised again that vaccination can provide a “real way out” of the pandemic which has lasted the past year and a half.
“The positive news is that take-up in Ireland is extremely high, which shows people understand the benefits for themselves and for their communities of getting vaccinated.”
In people aged 40 and over, more than 90% have received at least one dose of vaccine, and even among young people that has now hit 73% in the 18-29 year old category.
Among teenagers, just under half of 16-17 year-olds have received their first shot. The walk-in clinics last weekend saw particularly high attendance among young people.
“It’s understandable that after the period of time that COVID-19 has been with us, that some people become tired of it,” Tony Holohan said.
“But the virus does not become tired. It doesn’t care if we are fed up, it only sees the opportunity to spread from person to person when we let our guard down.”
“Risk assess your plans this weekend. Remember that if you have any cold or flu like symptoms at all, you should err on the side of caution and stay at home – do not meet up with others, and do not go to work.”
“If you are an employer, remind your employees to continue working from home where possible for now, and not to attend work with any COVID-19 symptoms.”
“Vaccines work, but they must also be supported by us all choosing to act as safely as possible.”
The COVID-19 data hub provides information on the key indicators of COVID-19 in the community, including the rollout of the vaccine campaign.
