Dr Tony Holohan has warned today's lower case numbers are likely a false flag, warning that health chiefs expect to see a "large increase" in reported infections in the coming days.
The Chief Medical Officer issued a stark warning to the country tonight after public health chiefs reported 744 cases and four more deaths.
Today's figures represent a significant drop on the 1,296 infections reported yesterday – but Dr Holohan didn't sugarcoat the situation as he warned: "Due to the lower volume of tests being carried out over Christmas Day and yesterday, we believe there are higher levels of disease circulating in the community than today’s reported case numbers reflect.
"We expect, therefore, to see a large increase in cases reported over the coming days."
The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) issued tonight's warning after a "significant increase" in the number of hospitalisations over the last two weeks.
Dr Tony Holohan added: "This indicates a deteriorating disease trajectory nationally and is a significant reminder of the severity of this disease.”
"There have been further increases across key indicators of COVID-19 right across the country and the growth rate of the epidemic has accelerated in recent days.
"If we do not act now to stop the spread of COVID-19, we will not be able to protect those in our society that are most at risk of serious illness or death.
"Stay home, do not visit friends or family unless you are providing essential care and do not have visitors to your home. Follow the public health advice."
Dr Holohan's comments come as hopes grow that the first Covid-19 vaccine will be doled out on December 29 – a day earlier than originally planned.
HSE chief Paul Reid said today that "some" vaccinations will take place on Tuesday, amid mounting pressure on public health bosses to begin inoculating the most vulnerable members of society.
