Dr Ronan Glynn said there is “no question” the Delta variant is impacting transmission of the virus in Ireland.
783 new cases of Covid-19 were reported in Ireland on Wednesday, the highest number since 20 February.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said there is “no question” that the Delta variant is impacting on transmission of the virus.
The figures released from the Department of Health on Wednesday did not contain information regarding deaths related to Covid-19.
The Department of Health’s statement said that the number of daily cases may also change due to future data validation.
As of 8am on Wednesday, 73 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 20 are in ICU.
As of midnight, Tuesday 13 July, we are reporting 783* confirmed cases of #COVID19.
20 in ICU. 73 in hospital.
*Daily case numbers may change due to future data review, validation and update.
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) July 14, 2021
In a statement accompanying the figures, the Deputy CMO said: “The latest data is showing clear increases in incidence of disease right across the country.
“There is no question that the delta variant is having a considerable impact on transmission of Covid-19.”
Glynn also stated that people infected with the Delta variant are presenting with a different variety of symptoms than seen with other variants. These include a headache, a sore throat and a blocked or runny nose.
“If you have any symptoms of a cold or flu it is vital that you isolate immediately and arrange a test,” Glynn noted.
Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group Professor Philip Nolan said the Delta variant is now responsible for most Covid-19 cases in Ireland.
He stated: “We have seen incidence increase significantly over the last two weeks, especially in unvaccinated groups. Infections are now growing at 2-4% per day.
“We can control this, and as we move towards a further re-opening of society next week, it is important to remember that the public health advice that we are all so familiar with is as effective in breaking the chains of transmission of the Delta variant as it has been throughout the pandemic.
“Avoid crowds, wear a mask, manage your contacts, keep your distance, meet outdoors where possible, and, if indoors, ensure that the room is well ventilated.”
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