The Department of Health has been notified of a further 14,555 new PCR-confirmed cases of Covid-19, as well as 5,406 positive antigen tests logged through the HSE portal.
The number of people hospitalised with the virus stands at 940, which is a reduction of 80 since yesterday.
Of those being treated in hospital, 89 are in intensive care, which is up six since yesterday.
The figures come as Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has urged people to note that as people get familiar with the new advice on isolation periods, the importance of other protective measures should not be disregarded.
“This latest guidance places an increased emphasis on the use by cases and close contacts of higher-grade face masks, as opposed to cloth masks,” he told RTE News.
Dr Holohan added: “Other protective measures including strict limiting of social contacts are also advised for the full 10 days following a confirmed Covid-19 infection or close contact.
“These combined measures are intended to offset any increase in risk of transmission that may result from the reduction and or removal of the requirement to self-isolate or restrict movements.
He reiterated the latest advice, saying that it is now recommended that medica grade or FFP2 masks are used by any confirmed case, close contact or symptomatic person over the age of 13, as well as over 60s or vulnerable people in crowded settings.
“Masks can play a key role in reducing transmission of Covid-19 if made correctly, well fitted and worn properly – that is they cover the nose, mouth and chin,” he added.
