The Department of Health has this evening reported 4,570 further cases of Covid-19.
The number of confirmed infections here has now surpassed half a million.
622 people are in hospital with the virus - an increase of 40 on yesterday.
117 people are being treated in intensive care, up 11.
The @hpscireland has today been notified of 4,570* confirmed cases of #COVID19.
As of 8am today, 622 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 117 are in ICU.
*Daily case numbers may change due to future data validation— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) November 15, 2021
Ministers are due to meet to discuss new measures aimed at reducing the high Covid rates.
The cabinet sub-committee will consider NPHET recommendations on the wider use of covid certs and advice on working from home.
Proposals for the further use of antigen tests will also be discussed - and how to make them more affordable.
At the moment, we have very high levels of transmission of #COVID19, one of the highest levels we've had over the entire course of the pandemic. The 'force of infection' - the chance you have of ‘bumping into’ this virus is very, very high. pic.twitter.com/Qiuxea3YiE
— Dr Tony Holohan (@CMOIreland) November 12, 2021
Meanhwile, the HSE says additional capacity from private healthcare providers could be sought if necessary this winter.
The HSE says it's expecting to face significant challenges in the coming months, as it continues to deal with Covid-19, in addition to the normal challenges of the winter period.
The winter plan proposes to manage these challenges across primary and community care, and includes measures to allow the public hospital system to access private healthcare capacity.
The Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly is urging people in need of medical assistance to seek alternatives to an Emergency Department, if possible.
The strategy provides for increased GP diagnostic consultations and out-of-hours services.
