There have been a further 4,022 cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health today, and six cases of the Omicron variant have now been confirmed in Ireland.
As of this morning there were 530 people in the country hospitalised with the virus, of whom 115 are in the ICU.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan said “There are now 6 confirmed cases of the Omicron variant in Ireland. A number of other probable cases are under investigation.”
“Although this is a new variant, our early understanding gives us confidence that a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine will offer good protection against Omicron and Delta infection.”
“Our current wave of disease continues to be driven by the Delta variant of COVID-19. We know that the public health measures we are so familiar with will break the chains of transmission of Delta, and we are confident they will work on Omicron.”
“Please continue to layer up on the public health advice by getting vaccinated and boosted, reducing contacts, wearing masks, keeping distance, opening windows and cleaning hands regularly.”
The CMO said added that it is “heartening” to see the number of people who attended walk-in clinics for the booster vaccine.
“If you are eligible for a booster dose, then please do not wait until after Christmas to receive it. You will begin to receive the benefit of your booster protection within seven days of receiving your third dose.”
“This means that anybody who receives their booster vaccine this week or next can be confident in the protection the booster will offer as we move closer to the Christmas period.”
The COVID-19 data hub provides information on the key indicators of the disease in the community, including the status of the vaccine campaign.
