LATEST: Over 1,200 new cases of virus confirmed, Holohan warns of impact on elderly

A further 1,224 people have contracted the coronavirus, the Department of Health confirmed this evening.

And there are now 278 people being treated in hospital for the virus, an increase of 17 on yesterday’s figure.

Of these, 63 are in intensive care, down three on yesterday.

Commenting today, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan noted that the pandemic is having had a disproportionate impact on older age groups.

Dr Holohan said he was mindful of the concerns older people would have on how to socialise safely as pandemic restrictions are further eased in the coming weeks, especially during a period of darker evenings and colder weather.