Four more deaths and 425 new Covid-19 cases

A further four deaths relating to Covid-19 as well as 425 new cases of the virus have been notified to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre today.

Of the deaths notified today, two occurred in Ma, one in February and one in January.

This brings the death toll to 4,941 and the total number of confirmed cases to 254,870.

Of the cases notified today:

202 are men and 223 are women

78 per cent are under 45 years of age

four per cent are over 65 years of age

the median age is 29 years old

As of last Tuesday (11th May) there have been 1,922,913 doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Ireland; 1,408,105 people have received their first dose and 514,808 people have received their second dose

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, said: “Many of us have fond memories of our time in school, particularly the traditional celebrations that mark the formal end of in-school learning like graduation ceremonies for sixth-year students.

"I am aware that this is an important time in the lives of young adults as they take a break from studying for an evening to celebrate with friends.

“Unfortunately, this year, it is not possible for events of this nature to take place. It is very important that all students preparing to sit state exams in June take the necessary precautions now to ensure you do not contract Covid-19, particularly in the last remaining days before the commencement of the Leaving Cert. Do not attend graduation ceremonies or events. Take this time to restrict your social contacts and continue to follow the public health advice.”