Over 3,000 cases of Covid-19 have been reported every day over the past week.
NPHET has reported 3,161 new cases of COVID-19 this evening - but that's an estimate, due to a technical issue.
498 patients are in Irish hospitals today, an increase of 20 from yesterday, while the ICU figure is up three, to 78.
The @hpscireland has today been notified of 3,161* confirmed cases of #COVID19.
As of 8am today, 498 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 78 are in ICU.
*Daily case numbers may change due to future data validation.— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) November 8, 2021
The chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, says cases are dropping in age-groups who've received a booster vaccine.
‘It is not too late to become part of our vaccinated pool of people and your participation in the COVID-19 vaccine programme will be welcomed.'
‘We are now also boosting and offering a third vaccine dose to healthcare workers and people over the age of 60. We are beginning to see encouraging signs, in the decreasing levels of infection among those age groups that have received their booster dose. The importance of coming forward cannot be overstated. If it is time for your booster, please come forward to receive that booster.'
If you haven't yet been vaccinated, or if it's time for your booster, please ensure to come forward for that vaccine.
Our adherence to all the basic public health advice that we are so familiar with has worked over the course of this pandemic.#COVID19pic.twitter.com/leartdyXSk— Dr Tony Holohan (@CMOIreland) November 8, 2021
Meanwhile, The Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) says antigen tests in schools have to be free and handed out quickly.
The Taoiseach has confirmed they will be used in primary schools before Christmas.
Around 400 primary school children tested positive for covid every day over the past two weeks.
