There are 1,940 new confirmed COVID cases in Ireland today - a slight decrease from yesterday’s figure of 2,002.
352 people are hospitalised with coronavirus, of whom 74 are in ICU.
The five-day moving average of cases has increased to 1,451 - up from 1,242 yesterday.
92% of adults in Ireland are fully vaccinated. However, according to the HSE 67% of people in ICU with COVID are unvaccinated.
In Northern Ireland, three quarters of COVID patients in hospital under the age of 50 have not had the vaccine. While unvaccinated people over 50 are five times more likely to end up in hospital than those who have had the jab.
Vaccine 'lies'
Today at the Ulster Unionist Party conference, Northern Ireland’s Health Minister Robin Swann hit out at those who spread 'lies' about the safety of vaccines.
"Unfortunately, whilst we have seen so many people work so hard on our vaccination effort, there have been a small minority - a tiny minority - that are determined to spread misinformation and lies," he told conference attendees.
"Whilst I absolutely appreciate there are genuine cases of vaccine hesitancy - and I and my department will continue to have those engagements and provide whatever information or reassurance is necessary - unfortunately there others who chose not to accept the truth and seem set on putting the health and wellbeing of fellow citizens at risk."
Yesterday the province’s Executive announced that the requirement for social distancing in bars, restaurants and cafes will end from 31 October. However, the requirement to wear face coverings on public transport and in shops will remain.
In the Republic, most restrictions are due to end on 22 October but Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn those with symptoms should continue to isolate:
"If you are experiencing a high temperature, dry cough, or flu like symptoms please stay at home - do not go to work or socialise.
"To keep yourself and your family safe please continue to regularly wash your hands, wear a mask when appropriate, open windows and ventilate indoor spaces, and choose outdoors where possible for meeting others."
Main image: A man is tested for COVID-19. Picture by: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland
