4,407 new cases as Holohan says virus levels ‘unsustainable’

As Taoiseach is set to announce further measures to tackle the latest wave of Covid-19, the country recorded another 4,407 new cases.

As of Tuesday morning, there were 614 hospitalized patients with the disease, of whom 114 were in intensive care.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said nearly 55,000 cases of Covid-19 have been reported in the past 14 days.

«The only time we had more cases in a 14-day period was in January of this year, and unfortunately, we expect this number to rise in the coming days,» he added.

“When the incidence of disease is this high, we must all act as if we are in close contact as if we are at risk of transmitting the virus to others.

“We are more likely to contract Covid-19 from someone we know – a friend, a co-worker or a teammate – than a stranger passing a store or on the bus. Please prioritize who you need to meet with.

“More than two million people are now eligible for a booster vaccine, including both those over 50 and those over 16 with underlying medical conditions.

“It is important that you come to your support appointment as soon as you have been shown.

“Given the risks to you from the current strength of infection in the community, it is really important that you reduce, as much as possible, your social contacts, while waiting for your reinforcement.

«Family and friends of all those who will soon be called for a booster dose should also continue to follow public health advice, as this is the best way to protect your loved one.»