LATEST: Holohan says rise in hospital cases ‘concerning’ as 44 new Covid deaths confirmed
A further 17,656 people have contracted Covid-19, the Department of Health confirmed this evening.
And the number of patients being treated in hospital for the virus has risen 928, a rise of 44 of yesterday’s figure.
Of these, 94 are being treated in ICU, an increase of four.
Meanwhile, 40 deaths have been notified over the past week, bringing the overall Covid death toll to 5,952.
Commenting on the latest figures, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said: “It is concerning to see the rising number of people with Covid-19 in hospital.
“This means that our collective efforts to follow the public health advice remain very important. I know that many have sacrificed valuable time with friends and family to protect themselves and the wider community. These continued efforts are helping to slow the spread of this virus and will protect many from infection in the next few weeks.”
Dr Holohan again stressed the importance of getting the booster vaccine, saying it will “protect the majority of people from severe disease”.
He added: “The booster programme is now open to everyone aged 16 and over. If you are not yet fully vaccinated or are yet to receive a booster dose, please take this opportunity to protect yourself as soon as possible.”
