The Chief Medical Officer has said that Ireland is in "a good position" in its ongoing fight against Covid-19.
Despite soaring case and death numbers in 2021, Dr Tony Holohan explained that the arrival of "safe vaccines" represents a major boost to public health.
He explained that the Pfizer/ BioNTech and Moderna jabs will provide a very high level of protection to those aged over 70.
Speaking after 1,318 new cases and 75 deaths were confirmed on Thursday, he said: “We know that the over 70s have suffered the greatest burden of mortality and serious illness from Covid-19.
"Ireland is now in a good position; we can now offer highly effective and safe vaccines to this cohort.
“The superior efficacy demonstrated by the mRNA vaccines authorised for use in Ireland, Pfizer/ BioNTech and Moderna mean that the mRNA vaccines are the right vaccine to provide the highest level of protection available to those over 70.
“Over the coming weeks, we will see many more of our vulnerable loved ones receive their Covid-19 vaccinations. This is good news and gives all of us great hope".
But Dr Holohan warned that even if you receive a jab, you must continue to follow public health advice.
He added: "However, even if you have received your Covid-19 vaccine, you must continue to wash your hands, wear a face covering, maintain a social distance and keep your close contacts to a minimum.
"Until we have all been vaccinated, we must act as though none of us have been vaccinated.”
In other positive news, Dr Holohan told reporters that Ireland is now the fastest improving country in the EU in the ongoing battle against the pandemic.
