Irish health officials have today reported 13,765 new cases of Covid-19.
This latest figure is now the highest daily tally reported since the beginning of the pandemic.
As of 8 am today, 378 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised receiving treatment for severe effects of the virus - of which 87 are in ICU.
This marks a decrease in hospital figures of 15 as ICU numbers are also down by two.
In a post on Twitter, the Department of Health has warned that it anticipates "large volumes of case numbers over the coming period."
Thousands of people are spending their Christmas in isolation, as the Omicron variant spreads through the community.
Speaking on Friday, Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan explained what to do if you test positive over the festive season.
He said: "If someone in the household receives a “detected” or “positive” test result either via a PCR test or an antigen test, then all members of the household should restrict their movements and not attend work or socialise with others.
"Even though we recognise that it is very difficult at this time of year to stay away from loved ones, it is really important that anyone who receives confirmation of a confirmed #COVID19 infection self-isolate for ten days.
"If you are identified as a close contact and have received a booster dose of #COVID19 vaccine, then you should restrict your movements for five days. If you have not yet been boosted, you should restrict your movements for ten days. More information on http://hse.ie.”
