There's been a huge increase in the number of COVID-19 cases  today (Wednesday) with 783 reported.

According to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre as of 8am today, 73 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 20 are in ICU. There's also been 13 additional hospitalisations in the past 24 hours.

“Throughout this pandemic, we have been mindful of the disproportionate impact the necessary public health measures have had on certain people in our society," Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said. "Unfortunately, this remains the case and we are continuing to see our young people suffer a great burden as they wait for their vaccinations."

INCREASES

Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, 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 of transmission of COVID-19.

“Delta also appears to be presenting with a different variety of symptoms than we have seen with other variants, including headache, sore throat and 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.”

Professor Philip Nolan, Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said: “We know that the Delta variant is now responsible for most cases in Ireland and that it is at least twice as transmissible than the previous dominant variant. 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 reopening of society next week, it is important to remember that the public health advice that we 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.”

Dr Cillian De Gascun, Medical Virologist and Director of the National Virus Reference Laboratory said: “While Delta prevalence continues to increase, the available data in relation to vaccine effectiveness continues to be reassuring. However, high levels of circulating virus in a partially vaccinated population increases the risk of emergence of virus variants. As such, it is vital that we continue to follow the other public health interventions until the majority of our population is vaccinated.”