Covid hospital numbers are at their highest levels since January.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been notified of 2,100 PCR-confirmed cases of COVID-19.
In addition, on Sunday 13 March, 7,271 people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal.
On Saturday 12 March, the HPSC was notified of 4,400 PCR-confirmed cases of COVID-19. 6,853* people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal the previous day.
On Sunday 13 March, the HPSC was notified of 5,475 PCR-confirmed cases of COVID-19. 5,791* people registered a positive antigen test through the HSE portal the previous day.
As of 8am today, 1,042 COVID-19 patients are hospitalised, of whom 42 are in ICU.
It comes amid renewed calls for mandatory mask-wearing to be reintroduced.
A Fine Gael senator making the call as hospital figures rise.
They're at their highest levels since mid-January.
With St Patrick's Day celebrations about to kick off, Senator Jerry Buttimer feels extra caution is needed:
While a public health expert says there should be a renewed message for people to wear masks in shops and on public transport.
The number of people in hospital with Covid has increased by nearly 60 per cent in the last two weeks.
More than 950 patients are being treated compared to just over 600 at the end of February.
Infectious diseases professor Jack Lambert says although masks are optional, they still play an important role:
Laois 10k Run and Family Fun Day Returns This Sunday
Fianna Fail Councillor Elected Tullamore Cathaoirleach
Outgoing Chair Of Offaly County Council Elected Birr Cathaoirleach
Midlands Showing Fast Growth In Mortgages For First Time Buyers
Plans For Major Laois Redevelopment Delayed
Enterprise Minister Expresses Concern Over Ticket Website Liquidation
Builders Behind Midlands Solar Farm Scoop Up Award For Construction Excellence
Laois TD Highlights Four Year Wait For Neurological Assessments
40 New Jobs On The Way To Laois
Westmeath Psychotherapist Warns Of Gambling Addictions
Katie Taylor Fight In Croke Park Sold Out
Sunshine Is On The Way For The Midlands
SIPTU Call For 'Full Answers' On Midlands College Closure
Westmeath Community Project Launching Strategic Plan Today
New Road Safety Campaign For Midlands Summer Events
Former Laois-Offaly Garda Sergeant Joins Muintir Na Tíre
Laois Accused Told Gardaí He Hit Deer After Fatal Collision
Business Leaders Meeting In Laois
Midlands Landscaper Granted Bail In Drug Case
Laois Leisure Centre Calls Gardaí Over Group's "Disgraceful Behaviour"