There have been a further 2,029 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today.
As of this morning there were 448 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID.
Of these patients, 88 have been admitted to the intensive care units for treatment.
Ireland’s five day moving average is now at 1,906 cases per day.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer said “We have seen a significant increase in transmission over the course of the last fortnight.”
“We currently have in excess of 500 cases per 100,000 of the population and disease incidence is rising in all age groups and in every part of the country.”
“COVID-19 vaccines are very safe and effective at protecting against severe infection and I encourage anyone who has still to receive one to come forward and take up the opportunity to do so as soon as possible.”
“However, vaccines do not eliminate transmission of the disease and it is still possible for fully vaccinated people to pick up and transmit COVID-19.”
“It is important that we continue to follow public health advice as we know vaccination alone, even at very high levels of uptake, will not be sufficient to achieve suppression of the disease. This is also the clear advice available from the ECDC.”
Going into the October Bank Holiday weekend, Tony Holohan urged people to take particular care in crowded enclosed spaces.
From Friday, far more COVID-19 public health restrictions will be lifted, allowing pubs and restaurants to resume normal trading hours, nightclubs to reopen, and the return of indoor music events.
“It’s particularly important that people who are vulnerable to severe infection of the disease even when vaccinated, such as older people, plan their activities and recognise the risk factors, particularly in indoor settings.”
“If you plan to meet indoors with others, please ensure the room is well ventilated. Please continue to wear a mask where appropriate, wash your hands, manage your contacts, and maintain your social distance.”
“Where possible it’s really important to avoid crowded situations, especially indoors. If you are in an environment that feels unsafe then feel empowered to leave.”
