1,866 new Covid-19 cases reported in Ireland as ICU numbers at their highest since April

61 patients in Ireland are in intensive care with the virus.

1,866 new cases of Covid-19 were reported in Ireland on Thursday. The figures released from the Department of Health did not contain information regarding deaths related to Covid-19. As of 8am on Thursday, 331 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 61 are in ICU. https://twitter.com/roinnslainte/status/1430930134698274819 In a statement accompanying the figures, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan said that today's ICU figures are the highest since 3 April, 2021. "Critical care is our last line of defence against Covid-19 and I know this figure will concern many of us. There are however many other ways we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from severe outcomes from Covid-19," the CMO said. "Vaccination remains our best means of protection against Covid-19. The vaccines available in Ireland are very safe and effective against Covid-19. There are still some people who haven’t yet taken up the opportunity of vaccination, or who have delayed receiving a second dose for various reasons. "I strongly encourage anyone who is in this position to ensure they get fully vaccinated as soon as possible in order to best protect themselves and those around them. "When incidence of disease is high, as it is in Ireland at the moment, it greatly increases the risk to you of contracting Covid-19. If you complete your vaccine schedule you will be fully protected 7 – 14 days after your second dose." The CMO said vaccination, along with continuing adherence to the public health advice, will break the chains of transmission and drive down incidence of the virus in our communities. "If you display symptoms of Covid-19 like cough, fever, headache, sore throat and blocked or runny nose - isolate and get a test immediately," Holohan added. "Continue to regularly wash hands, wear a mask when appropriate, keep your distance, open windows and ventilate indoor spaces and avoid crowds. Manage your social contacts and choose outdoors where possible for meeting others." https://twitter.com/CMOIreland/status/1430931007058989069 Main image via Sam Boal / RollingNews.ie