There have been 6,735 further cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Ireland today by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).
The Department of Health says there are now 461 people in hospital, of which 91 are in ICU.
Professor Luke O'Neill said it is "definitely in our power" to stop the pandemic in 2022.
He shared five things that could stop the virus in its tracks and lead to a far more normal 2022.
The main things he mentioned were booster vaccines, the TRIPS waiver, antiviral drugs, anti-inflammatory medicines and public health measures.
He added that a fourth booster shot might be needed for older or vulnerable people.
"There’s a chance that over time more serious waning might happen, especially against Omicron, or indeed any new variant that might emerge," he writes in the Sunday Independent.
"So, it’s sensible to give the third shot now, and maybe even a fourth shot in older and vulnerable people.
"A third or fourth shot is likely also to give a durable response that will last for several months. It is therefore likely that every winter there will be a vaccination campaign against Covid-19 for older and vulnerable people, just like there is against flu."
Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan urged people to stay away from crowded shops.
He said: ""Avoid crowded places including retail environments. Choose to shop online where possible, queue outside and leave any retail environment that does not feel safe and that is not adhering to the public health guidance – implementing social distancing measures and queuing system, limiting numbers instore and staff wearing masks correctly (covering nose, mouth and chin)."
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