The Department of Health has confirmed 1,875 new cases of Covid-19.
There are 326 people in hospital who have tested positive for the disease, five fewer than yesterday, of whom 59 are in intensive care units, a reduction of two overnight.
Meanwhile the HSE confirmed that its walk-in vaccination centres will cater for children aged 12-15 for the first time this weekend.
Consent will be required from a parent or a legal guardian.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, said: “As many families prepare to return to school, this weekend offers an opportunity to be mindful of the public health practices we are all so familiar with.
“If you are unvaccinated, this weekend is the right time to get vaccinated.”
It comes as 1,875 new infections were reported in Northern Ireland today, alongside five further Covid-related deaths.
Fermanagh and Omagh (1,047.4) and Derry City and Strabane (968.2) have the two highest rates in the whole of the UK. Both areas hit a new peak in recent days.