COVID-19 cases in Ireland are at their highest level since January, according to latest figures from the Department of Health.
Figures released on Saturday show there were 2,966 new confirmed cases, an increase of more than 400 from the previous day.
The last time cases exceeded that total was on January 16, when 3,231 cases were reported.
However at that time, Covid-19 cases were in decline following a post-Christmas spike that saw numbers peak at 8,248 on January 8.
As of Saturday morning, 470 Covid-19 patients were in hospital, of which 92 were in ICU, down from 481 and 97 respectively from Friday.
'Break transmission'
Before the release of the latest figures, CMO Dr Tony Holohan addressed the recent rise in cases, which are most prevalent in children aged 5-12.
"Today we are reporting a high number of cases across the entire population, with the highest incidence amongst 5-12 year olds," said Dr Holoann.
"While the Covid-19 vaccines give high protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death, the way to break transmission is by following all aspects of the public health advice."
Dr Holohan urged caution for anyone attending Halloween events this weekend.
"This weekend, you can enjoy your favourite Halloween activities safely by taking some simple precautions," he said.
"If you are having visitors over, provide hand sanitiser, open windows and try to ensure people can spread out and keep their distance from one another — avoid crowded parties.
"For trick-or-treaters, give out treats outdoors if possible. Wash or sanitise hands frequently, and before eating or handling treats.
"Neither children nor adults should go trick-or-treating or meet up with others if they have any symptoms of COVID-19, even if symptoms are minor — instead, please isolate and get a test."
So far, 7,321,145 vaccines — comprising first, second and single dose vaccines — have been administered in the state.
Meanwhile in Northern Ireland, 1,207 new cases and eight deaths were confirmed on Saturday.
A total of 274,271 cases and 2,699 deaths have been recorded in Northern Ireland since the beginning of the pandemic.
