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Four areas were hit the hardest, with 21 counties seeing an increase in coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, new figures show.
Dublin saw the largest increase again, with 68 more infections.
Limerick followed with 13, as well as Galway and Kildare with nine.
Cork, Wexford and Wicklow each reported five new cases.
The remaining 24 new infections spread to Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford, and Westmeath.
In total, the Department of Health reported 138 new cases across the country tonight.
There are now 29,672 people here who have tested positive for Covid-19.
Of the cases reported today:
- 59 are men / 79 are women
- 67% are under 45
- 39% confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case
- 23 cases have been identified as community transmission
The biggest increase in the capital comes after a big spike in cases there yesterday, which prompted the acting medical director to encourage Dubliners to limit their social contacts.
Dr Ronan Glynn said: “While there are a significant number of cases in Dublin today, it is important to look at the numbers for the day in the context of our 7 and 14 day incidence rates.
“NPHET pays close attention to trends and patterns in the data over time to analyze the progression of COVID-19 both across the country and in particular areas or settings.”
“However, it is now really important that the people of Dublin keep their social contacts as low as possible.
“It is also vitally important that if you are not feeling well, you isolate yourself immediately. Call your GP without delay if you have any concerns. Know the symptoms to watch out for: cough, shortness of breath, fever , loss of sense of taste or smell.
“Given the increase in the number of cases in Dublin, the HSE has opened two emerging COVID-19 swab centers in Dublin this weekend, at Croke Park and at Castleknock Health Center.
“Please come forward for the test if you have any concerns. Remember, if you need a test, it will be free.”
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