A new Covid variant labelled the "most transmissible yet" has been sweeping across the country.
Named XBB.1.5, this variant is a relative of the notorious Omicron, evolving from the XBB variant that arrived in Ireland last year, the Irish Independent reported.
Having first been detected in January, it has been the predominant variant found in patients in Ireland with sever acute respiratory infection, with the World Health Organisation saying it has a large growth advantage over others.
READ MORE: Nadine Coyle shows support for Cheryl as she attends her West End play
However, it has been reported that XBB.1.5 will not lead to more severe infection, despite being better at evading immunity, particularly with a high-level of vaccination amongst the Irish public.
Research in the US, where the sub-variant was also detected showed that booster jabs did provide sufficient protection for those most vulnerable.
Testing
While test centres in the country officially closed last week, those concerned are being urged to contact their GP, who can prescribe anti-viral medication in an effort to ease the symptoms.
This can be done by providing a positive antigen test. If symptoms worsen, the patient can be referred to a hospital PCR test.
Anyone with flu symptoms are being asked to avoid contact with others within their community for a period of 48 hours after their symptoms have disappeared.
READ NEXT:
Man arrested in prison over 2016 shooting of Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch's brother Eddie Hutch in Dublin
Man gets Social Welfare logo tattooed on his face because 'it's funny' and he wants to add another
'We'll see if he even lives to 57' - Conor McGregor hit with early grave warning over 'lifestyle'
Weather models 'struggling' to get handle on system that could be 'firing up' storm for Ireland
