The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 1,501 confirmed cases of COVID-19.
As of 8am today, 169 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 23 are in ICU.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “This week vaccination is open to anyone over the age of 16 and those aged 12-15 will be able to register soon. Walk-in vaccination centres are now available for those yet to receive a first dose.
“If you have a child with an underlying medical condition, that is living in a household where there are other people at risk, please avail of vaccination at the earliest opportunity.
“Vaccination and the incredible uptake across many age groups is leading us to a turning point in the pandemic. If we experience similar uptake in the younger cohorts as experienced in the over 60’s, Ireland will have a strong population level defence against COVID-19 and its known variants.”
Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said; "If you experience any symptoms of a cold or flu, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, change in taste or smell, headache, sore throat, runny nose or blocked nose/sinuses, please isolate and come forward for a test. There are testing centres located in every county in Ireland."
