There have been eight additional deaths related to COVID-19 and 922 new cases reported by the Department of Health today.
Of the cases notified today, 43 are in Galway. The 14-day incidence rate here has now climbed to 86.4 cases per 100,000 population.
Galway had the fifth highest level of new cases reported today, behind Dublin (337), Cork (73), Limerick (70), and Wexford (56).
“Unfortunately, none of the indicators of this disease are showing encouraging signs. Ireland now has the fastest growing incidence rate in the European Union,” said Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer.
“This Christmas, the best present you can give your loved ones is to strictly adhere to the public health advice.”
There have now been 2,192 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland, and a total of 83,073 confirmed cases in the pandemic.
Validation of data at the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of four previously confirmed cases.
As of 8am this morning there are 255 people in hospital with COVID-19 in Ireland, of whom 22 are in the ICU. There have been 37 additional hospitalisations in the past 24 hours.
“Make your Christmas safe, meaningful and memorable for the right reasons. Stay home, stay safe and stay well,” Dr Holohan added.
“Limit contact as much as you can and ensure you and your loved ones have a happy and safe Christmas.”
The COVID-19 Dashboard provides up-to-date information on the key indicators of COVID-19 in the community.
