IRISH health officials have confirmed 1,071 new cases of Covid-19 this evening.
The Department of Health say that there are 101 patients in hospital with Covid-19, 20 of whom are in ICU.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said: “While we continue to enjoy the good weather, we are unfortunately also continuing to see a rise in incidence of disease across all key indicators.
“Our 14-day incidence is now the highest it’s been since 24 February at 231/100,000. Our five-day average is 1,159 cases per day, the highest it’s been since 2 February.
“If you are waiting to be fully vaccinated, then it is best to continue to socialise outdoors.
“Events like barbecues, meeting in a park or going to the beach can be enjoyed safely once we do our best to minimise the risks of transmission – only meet in small groups, wash or sanitise your hands regularly, don’t share utensils and wear a face mask where appropriate.
“If you are meeting indoors, ensure that the room is well ventilated.”
From today, people aged 18-24 have been invited to register for their AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine.
In a statement today, the HSE also said that it expects to invite people aged 18-24 to register for mRNA vaccines from next week.
The mRNA vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, are recommended for everyone under the age of 50.
The HSE said: “When registering, people can also choose to opt for a viral vector vaccine, the AstraZeneca vaccine, as this may become available earlier than an mRNA vaccine.
“People opting in may be offered an earlier appointment because a supply of the AstraZeneca vaccine may be available before the mRNA vaccine.”
