A total of 3,726 cases of COVID-19 have been announced by health officials in Ireland today.
The 14-day incidence stands at 695 per 100,000, an increase of 18% on last week. As of 8am today, 493 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 90 are in ICU.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said: “COVID-19 is circulating widely in our community; but we have the tools to limit its spread.
“We know that vaccination is very successful at preventing severe illness and hospitalisation and I urge anyone who still needs to get their Covid vaccine to do so.
"We also know that, even when vaccinated, we still need to practice basic public health interventions - washing our hands, opening windows, wearing masks and most importantly, staying home when we have symptoms. These simple measures are very successful at breaking the chains of transmission of this disease.
“As we practice all elements of the public health advice, we keep ourselves, and our communities safe.”
Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said that the rise in the number of cases is "very concerning".
Speaking to RTE's Morning Ireland, Mr Martin said: "There are no guarantees in relation to Covid-19.
"The modelling we received from NPHET was looking at a situation peaking towards the end of November.
"But it is very concerning, the high rise of cases."
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter
