Ireland’s public health officials have reported 4,235 new Covid-19 cases.
An additional 24 cases of the Omicron variant have been detected, beginning the total number confirmed here to 42. The strain now makes up 13% of all reported cases.
Meanwhile 47 people have died with Covid-19 in the past week, bringing Ireland’s coronavirus death toll to 5,835.
There are currently 450 patients being treated for coronavirus in hospital, of which 105 are in ICU.
The latest figures were released by the Department of Health on Wednesday evening.
In a statement, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan issued a Christmas warning.
With just 10 days to go, he warned that anyone who contracts Covid-19 today will need to spend Christmas Day in isolation.
“Today marks ten days before Christmas. If you contract COVID-19 today your isolation period will include Christmas Day. This can be avoided by ensuring you take every step possible to protect yourself.
“If you are planning to spend Christmas with older family members, anyone immunocompromised or vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19, it is best that you take precautions from today.
“Avoid crowds, limit your contacts, work from home unless absolutely necessary, risk assess your environments and make safe choices over the coming days and weeks.”
Dr Holohan also gave an update on the Omicron variant, which he says accounts for 13% of all reported cases.
“Everyone should be aware that Omicron spreads very easily and we have now identified community transmission in Ireland, to the extent that this variant accounts for approximately 13% of all reported cases.
“Taking the opportunity to get a booster dose of vaccination is as vital today as getting the first dose was earlier this year. You will begin to receive the benefit of your booster protection within seven days of receiving your third dose.”
Finally the CMO issued a reminder of the seven key public health guidelines.
- Practice social distancing
Work from home, where possible
Avoid crowds
Ensure indoor spaces and public transport are ventilated (open windows)
Hand and respiratory hygiene
Use face masks
Stay at home and isolate if you experience symptoms
