2,975 new Covid cases as situation is 'finely balanced'

The Department of Health has today confirmed 2,975 new Covid cases.

As of 8 a.m. today, 551 virus patients were in hospital, an increase of 31, while 89 of those are in ICU, up by 6.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has described the current situation as "finely balanced."

He said the number of cases are rising in all age groups under 75 years

He added a particular increase is being witnessed in those aged between 19 and 24 years.

Discussions are also underway on antigen tests being used in schools, he added.