Seven in ten new Covid cases here are now Delta variant

Bailieborough Cootehill LEA has one of lowest rates in the country

An additional 365 confirmed cases of COVID-19 are being reported this evening to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre with the Delta variant now making up seven in 10 new cases reported here.

As of 8am today, 51 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, 14 of whom are in ICU.

Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “In excess of 70% of all cases are now accounted for by the Delta variant.

“While this variant continues to present a threat, those of us who are fully vaccinated can have confidence in their vaccine and should feel comfortable meeting with other fully vaccinated people in all settings.

“Unfortunately, the Delta variant continues to present a risk to those of us who are unvaccinated or waiting for a second dose of vaccine - we need to continue to follow the public health advice, manage you contacts, avoid crowds, wear a mask, wash your hands and most importantly get your COVID-19 vaccine when it is offered to you.”

The latest detailed analysis of new cases shows that the Cavan-Belturbet Local Electoral Area (LEA) currently has a 14-day incidence rate of 104 cases per 100,000 of population. This is above the national average of 98.9/100K. The figures are relevant as of June 28.

Both Ballyjamesduff and Bailieborough-Cootehill LEAs, meanwhile, are both below the national average for the prevalence of the virus.

The Ballyjamesduff area has a 14-day incidence rate of 65.9 per 100k of the population, which translates to 17 new cases.

The rate in Bailieborough-Cootehill is less than five cases per 100,000 of population and, in fact, was less than five cases over the 14-day period analysed, making it one of the lowest rates in the country.