There have been 16,986 new cases of COVID-19 in Ireland today.

The five-day moving average of new cases now stands at 19,600 - nearly double what it was this day last week.

Hospital figures have risen significantly over the long weekend.

As of 8am this morning, there were 804 patients with the virus being treated in Irish hospitals - up 87 compared to yesterday.

It’s the highest number of COVID patients in hospital since last February.

ICU figures have risen slightly over the last 24 hours, from 87 yesterday to 93 today.

Meanwhile, COVID vaccination registration has today opened for all 5 to 11 year olds.

Parents or guardians of children in the age group can register via the HSE website.

Main image: Dr Tony Holohan and Prof Philip Nolan at a NPHET press briefing. Photograph: Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie