The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan, has issued an urgent plea to the public after one of the key stats for the tracking of Covid in Ireland hit a worrying new high.
On Thursday evening, 61 people were suffering from the virus in hospital in the ICU.
This was the highest number since April of 2020 - weeks after the pandemic first hit Ireland.
Dr Holohan said: Critical care is our last line of defence against #COVID19 and I know this figure will concern many of us. There are however many other ways we can protect ourselves and our loves ones from severe outcomes from Covid-19
"Vaccination remains our best means of protection against the virus. The vaccines available in Ireland are very safe and effective. 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 also reiterated that the simple measures will be the best to combat the virus.
"Continue to regularly wash hands, wear a mask when appropriate, keep your distance, open windows and ventilate indoor spaces and avoid crowds. Manage your social contacts and choose outdoors where possible for meeting others."
As the country battles through the latest Delta surge, the vaccination rollout continues to see high volumes of the population receiving their Covid-19 jabs.
Next week, Taoiseach Micheal Martin is set to announce the latest roadmap for the easing of restrictions in the coming weeks.
Cabinet Ministers will meet on Friday with the Chief Medical Officer, NPHET members and HSE boss Paul Reid, who will give Coalition leaders their advice ahead of Government finalising plans to lift all remaining Covid-19 restrictions.
