Health authorities have confirmed a further 397 cases of COVID in Ireland today.
16 people who are COVID positive are in ICU.
A total of 54 patients with COVID-19 are currently in hospitals across the country.
The latest figures were announced by the Department of Health this evening.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “We are seeing a small but concerning increase in hospitalisations in recent days, coming 10-14 days after the five day moving average of daily case numbers began to increase.
"This is a cause for concern and we will be monitoring it closely in the days and weeks ahead.
“Full vaccination is needed to protect against COVID-19, including the Delta variant.
"To protect yourselves and your loved ones, it is extremely important to take up the opportunity of being vaccinated and come forward for your second dose as soon as it is offered to you.
"The second vaccination is very effective at preventing both disease and hospitalisation.”
Meanwhile, following a spate of Covid case jumps over the last few days, there is growing fears in the Government that Ireland will experience highs of 1,000 cases a day this month.
The Cabinet fears that the Delta variant of the virus could cause a massive jump in those contracting Covid with the large figures predicted for the same date that international travel and indoor dining is set to resume.
It is understood that there will be a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday with NPHET set to present data which shows the predicted surge in Delta cases over the next two weeks.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “In excess of 70% of all cases are now accounted for by the Delta variant.
“While this variant continues to present a threat, those of us who are fully vaccinated can have confidence in their vaccine and should feel comfortable meeting with other fully vaccinated people in all settings.
“Unfortunately, the Delta variant continues to present a risk to those of us who are unvaccinated or waiting for a second dose of vaccine - we need to continue to follow the public health advice, manage you contacts, avoid crowds, wear a mask, wash your hands and most importantly get your COVID-19 vaccine when it is offered to you.”
