That's according to Mullingar's Professor Kingston Mills.
The Chief Medical Officer has warned of a "significant risk" to staff and patients from the rising numbers with Covid-19 in hospital.
In Dr Tony Holohan's letter to the Health Minister on January 7th, he also said the increase will reduce the ability of hospitals to provide safe, high-quality care.
The latest figures show there are 2,023 patients with the virus in hospital and 200 in intensive care.
Mullingar's Professor Kingston Mills, an immunology expert at Trinity College Dublin, says the pressure on the system will remain for a number of weeks:
Emergency Services Attend Fatal Offaly Fire
Laois Makeup Artist Warns Of Expired Suncream Dangers
Lynx and Wolves In Ireland Pose Minimal Threat - Offaly Biodiversity
€4.5m Going To Midlands Suckler Farmers
Westmeath Writer Nominated Posthumously For Award
Seven Midlands Hotels Nominated For Gold Medal Hotel Awards
Cabinet Approves Major Expansion Of Midlands Garda HQ And Prison
Memorial Day Honouring Ashling Murphy Takes Place In Offaly
Midlands Town Left Shocked After Death Of Young Woman
Concerns Highlighted On Drones Spotted Ahead Of Zelenskyy Visit
€6m Westmeath Lotto Jackpot Winner Comes Forward
Israel’s Participation Sparks Eurovision Withdrawals From Ireland And Others
Teachers Union Calls For More Permanent Posts Amid Recruitment Challenges
Offaly Garda To Receive Bronze Medal And Bravery Award
Laois TD Questions Effectiveness Of Utilities Commission In Regulating Uisce Éireann
€6m Lotto Jackpot Ticket Sold In Mullingar
Grinch Themed Late Late Toy Show Lights Up the Midlands
Strong Friday Winds Forecast
Laois Clinical Physiologist Highlights Importance Of Exercise
€1,300 Saved In Energy Bills By Offaly Community