The Chief Medical Officer has issued an update on the latest situation with Covid-19 in Ireland ahead of the easing of restrictions in three weeks' time.
Dr Tony Holohan said that while there have been "encouraging indicators" recently, we still need to be vigilant as we enter the colder winter months.
Ireland will edge one step closer to the return of normal life with the lifting of most lockdown rules on October 22.
With this in mind, and given the change in the weather, the top public health official urged people to avail of the Covid vaccine if they have not yet done so.
"As we move into the time of year where the weather isn't going to be as good and being out and about all of the time is a bit more difficult, it’s important that we continue to be mindful of the public health advice," he said.
"Vaccination remains our best means of protection against #COVID19. There are still some people who haven’t yet taken up the opportunity of vaccination, or who have delayed receiving a second dose for various reasons.
"I strongly encourage anyone who is in this position to ensure they get fully vaccinated as soon as possible in order to best protect themselves and those around them."
Dr Holohan explained what people need to continue doing to stop the spread of the virus, and summarised the "really important message" from his update.
He said: "Continue to regularly wash hands, wear a mask when appropriate – particularly in retail settings, on public transport and in healthcare settings; keep your distance, open windows and ventilate indoor spaces, avoid crowds and choose outdoors where possible for meeting others.
"The really important message is - if you have cold-like symptoms – runny nose, sore throat, headache, temperatures, then stay home, don't go to work, don't go to school, don't go out socialising or invite other people into your home if you have symptoms."
In a video accompanying the update, Dr Holohan added that case numbers have stabilised in recent weeks.
Among the encouraging indicators is that the incidence of the virus in children, particularly those in primary school, "has fallen right back down".
This shows that the classroom environment is safe, and that the continuation of education is "really encouraging".
He also reiterated that people need to be cautious when meeting indoors in the winter, and to be aware of circumstances that can lead to increased transmission of the virus.
