"Today’s data show a concerning increase in transmission of the Delta variant in Ireland."
Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan has issued a warning as the Delta variant accounted for 20% of Covid-19 cases in the last week.
Dr Holohan described the increase as "concerning" as the number of patients in hospital with Covid-19 has risen slightly to 53 although the number who are in intensive care units fell to 13.
"Today’s data show a concerning increase in transmission of the Delta variant in Ireland. We estimate that Delta accounts for up to 20% of cases reported in the last week," he said on Monday.
"We have also seen a number of outbreaks associated with this variant reported in the last week."
Dr Holohan added that it's "really important" for people who have yet to receive both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to follow public health advice.
"It is really important that people who are not fully vaccinated continue to follow all public health advice. This includes people who are waiting for their second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine," he continued.
"People should take a vaccine when it is offered to them and in the meantime, they should continue to avoid crowds, limit contacts, avoid meeting up indoors and work from home where possible."
The spread of the Delta variant will be among the factors which the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) will consider next week when it meets to decide on the next lifting of restrictions from 5 July, including indoor dining.
