The Transport Minister says the Government will have to consider a return to mask wearing on public transport.
Eamon Ryan made the comment as the number of people in hospital with Covid 19 increased by 200 in the past week.
656 people are now in hospital with Covid, 26 of whom are in ICU.
Hospitals have been under pressure in recent days due to an influx of patients with Covid, flu and RSV infections.
The news comes as, 524 people are waiting for beds in Irish hospitals today.
429 patients are in emergency departments, while 95 are in wards, according to the INMO's Trolley Watch.
University Hospital Limerick is the worst affected hospital today, with 75 people on trolleys.
In the region, there are 56 people waiting for a bed while awaiting medical treatment on trolleys.
The breakdown in the region is as follows:
- St.Lukes Hospital for Carlow/Kilkenny - 33
- Wexford General - 12
- Tipperary University Hospital - 8
- University Hospital Waterford - 3
Elsewhere, one confirmed case of meningitis is being investigated in County Clare, after a teenager died.
Health officials are investigating possible close contacts - but say risk to the wider community is very low.
The HSE says 'close and fairly prolonged contact' is needed for person to person spread.
Public Health Mid West has issued a list of symptoms to look out for.
They are severe headaches, fever. vomiting, drowsiness, discomfort from bright light, neck stiffness and rash.
