Following a spate of Covid case jumps over the last few days, there is growing fears in the Government that Ireland will experience highs of 1,000 cases a day this month.
The Cabinet fears that the Delta variant of the virus could cause a massive jump in those contracting Covid with the large figures predicted for the same date that international travel and indoor dining is set to resume.
It is understood that there will be a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday with NPHET set to present data which shows the predicted surge in Delta cases over the next two weeks.
Health officials announced a further 365 cases of COVID-19 in Ireland on Monday with a total of 51 people hospitalised with the virus and 14 patients in ICU.
Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “In excess of 70% of all cases are now accounted for by the Delta variant.
“While this variant continues to present a threat, those of us who are fully vaccinated can have confidence in their vaccine and should feel comfortable meeting with other fully vaccinated people in all settings.
“Unfortunately, the Delta variant continues to present a risk to those of us who are unvaccinated or waiting for a second dose of vaccine - we need to continue to follow the public health advice, manage you contacts, avoid crowds, wear a mask, wash your hands and most importantly get your COVID-19 vaccine when it is offered to you.”
