The number of coronavirus patients in intensive care has dropped below 40 for the first time this year.

HSE figures show there were 39 patients in ICU yesterday evening – down from 43 the same day last week.

Meanwhile there were 132 COVID-19 patients in hospitals across the public health system – a 12.5% decrease on last week.

Last night, 383 new confirmed cases were announced alongside two further virus-related deaths.

The five-day moving average has risen 7.5% over the past week and now stands at 470.

The coronavirus Five-day moving average, 04-05-2021. Image: Newstalk

As of Sunday, 1,604,644 vaccine doses had been administered in Ireland.

Some 1,159,083 people in Ireland had received at least one dose – around 23% of the population.

The next round of easing restrictions is due to take place on May 10th.

It includes the removal of the ban on inter-county travel and the return of hairdressers and ‘click and collect’ shops.

Up to three households or up to six people will be allowed to meet up in a back garden.