Health officials have reported 5,483 new cases of COVID-19 today in the Republic.
As of 8am this morning, 549 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised nationally, of whom 96 are in intensive care units.
Dr Tony Holohan said that today they are reporting one of the highest ever daily figures of confirmed cases of COVID-19.
“This is another indication of the very significant increase in the incidence of disease in almost all age-groups across the population,” said the Chief Medical Officer.
“As we look ahead to the weekend, we need to continue to make every effort we can to drive down incidence of disease and break the chains of transmission.
“Before you leave the house, think about the number of people you are going to meet, and the risk associated with the activities you have planned.”
The Department of Health has said that the daily case numbers may change due to future data validation.
