The Department of Health has reported 1,866 new COVID cases in the State.
As of 8am today, there are 331 people with COVID-19 in hospitals in the Republic, of whom 61 are in intensive care units.
University Hospital Galway remains the hospital with the highest number of COVID cases at 32. Six of the confirmed cases at UHG are in ICU, according to the latest HSE data.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said that the number of people with COVID receiving critical care in hospitals nationally is the highest since 3 April this year.
“Critical care is our last line of defence against COVID-19 and I know this figure will concern many of us,” said the CMO.
“There are however many other ways we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from severe outcomes from COVID-19.”
Dr Holohan said that vaccination remains our best means of protection against COVID-19 and that the vaccines available in Ireland are very safe and effective against COVID-19.
“There are still some people who haven’t yet taken up the opportunity of vaccination or, who have delayed receiving a second dose for various reasons,” he said.
“I strongly encourage anyone who is in this position to ensure they get fully vaccinated as soon as possible in order to best protect themselves and those around them.”
“When incidence of disease is high, as it is in Ireland at the moment, it greatly increases the risk to you of contracting COVID-19. If you complete your vaccine schedule you will be fully protected 7 – 14 days after your second dose.
“Vaccination, along with continuing adherence to the public health advice, will break the chains of transmission and drive down incidence of COVID-19 in our communities.”
