There have been 393 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland and eight additional deaths.
Of the deaths notified today, three were in May, two back in March and three others were in February or earlier.
The median age of those who died was 79, and the age range was between 55 and 97 years.
There has been a total of 4,921 COVID-19 related deaths here and 251,474 cases.
These numbers include the denotification of two deaths and six confirmed cases.
Of the cases notified today:
- 175 are men / 211 are women
- 79% are under 45 years of age
- The median age is 28 years old
There are 173 cases in Dublin, 42 in Cork, 34 in Kildare, 26 in Donegal and 15 in Meath.
The remaining 103 cases are spread across 20 other counties.
As of 8.00am today, 131 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised - of which 36 are in ICU.
There have been 16 additional hospitalisations in the past 24 hours.
It comes as the number of coronavirus patients in hospital fell to its lowest level in over seven months.
There were 122 COVID-19 patients in Irish hospitals on Wednesday night - the lowest figure since October 2nd.
It also marked a 54% drop on the same day last month, and a 19% drop on the same day last week.
The seven-day incidence rate is 66, while the five-day moving average stands at 410.
While as of Tuesday May 4th, 1,655,866 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered: 1,201,373 first doses and 454,493 second doses.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, said: "We all want the easing of restrictions next week to be a significant turning point in this pandemic.
"We have worked so hard to reduce the spread of this disease.
"More than 30% of adults have now been vaccinated with one dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Ireland, and it is time to feel hopeful and to start planning our summer.
"The choices we make now are vital to minimise the incidence of COVID-19 throughout May and June.
"Prioritise being outside and avoid crowds. Know the symptoms - self-isolate immediately and phone your GP if you have them.
"By protecting yourself, you are protecting everyone you know from infection."
