Families should not hug one another when reunited at Christmas, a source close to NPHET has said.
The advice comes after another 335 people were infected with Covid-19 on Thursday, while another three sadly died.
And now a stern warning has been issued to anyone who is travelling or planning to see their families during the festive season.
A source has told the Irish Mirror that hugs even lasting seconds shouldn't be permitted.
They added that families should avoid embracing one another at all costs.
The source said: “The advice is to maintain distance and reduce your contacts.
“This is tough to take but it works, sadly.”
For the latest news and breaking news visit irishmirror.ie/news.
Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter - the official Irish Mirror Twitter account - real news in real time.
We're also on Facebook - your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Irish Daily Mirror, Irish Sunday Mirror and irishmirror.ie.
You can also get in touch with us via our Instagram account.
