The Director of the National Immunisation Office has strongly encouraged people to receive all the Covid vaccines and boosters that they are eligible for.
Dr Lucy Jessop said the boosters are not designed to prevent infection, but are effective at preventing people from becoming severely unwell.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, she said some people are still being hospitalised. Dr Jessop said there will be increased circulation of the disease as we move into autumn and more socialising takes place indoors.
NIAC has recommended that a second booster dose be offered to people aged between 50 and 64. It will also be offered to people in the 12-49 range who have underlying medical conditions or who are residents of long-term care facilities.