Omicron is the most dominent strain in Ireland - daily cases reported

THE HEALTH Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 5,124 confirmed cases of Covid-19.

The figure reported on Saturday was 7,333.

As of 8am today, 436 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 107 are in ICU. on Saturday morning, there were 410 people in hospital, 107 in intensive care.

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said it has taken less than two weeks for Omicron to become the dominant strain of Covid-19 in Ireland, revealing just how transmissible this variant is. 

"Possible Omicron cases can be identified by the number of PCR results with ‘S gene target failure.’ Using this methodology, we estimate that approximately 52% of reported cases are now due to the Omicron variant.

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"We have slowed transmission of this disease in the past using our basic measures and responding immediately if symptomatic – it is extremely important we do everything we can to flatten the curve of this wave now to prevent unnecessary deaths, risk to the vulnerable and to protect our health service. 

"I urge anyone eligible for a booster to available of it at the earliest opportunity.

"If the majority of us can now reduce our social contact, meet others outdoors, work from home unless absolutely necessary, ensure the appropriate use of face masks, avoid crowds and keep indoors well ventilated. Very importantly if you have any Covid-19 symptoms self-isolate immediately and arrange a PCR test, if you are a close contact of a confirmed case please restrict your movements."

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