Another 600 cases of COVID-19 have been reported by the Department of Health today.
As of this morning there were 64 people in Ireland hospitalised with COVID-19, of whom 16 are in the Intensive care unit.
“Tomorrow marks 500 days since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Ireland,” Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer.
“We have come a long way together on this difficult journey and sacrificed much in our collective effort to limit the transmission of this disease.”
“As we approach our 5 millionth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, we have great hope for our future.”
He added that the levels of protection provided by the vaccination programme in the community is increasing daily.
People who are fully vaccinated should take advantage of the ability to increase their social contacts, while still make sensible health choices.
However, Dr Holohan said that the highly transmissible Delta variant is still of great concern, particularly among that cohort who are unvaccinated, or have only gotten on jab.
“We are currently experiencing a worrying increase in incidence in daily case numbers, particularly in the 16-29 age group.”
“If you are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, you need to maintain a high degree of caution in your activities this summer.”
“It is essential for you to avoid crowds, carefully manage your contacts, wear your mask, keep a safe distance from others and take the vaccine when it is offered.”
