What has been described as a "rapid increase" in Covid-19 infection rates in Galway has prompted a joint appeal to people to adhere to public health guidelines.
The HSE, gardaí and the two local authorities in the county say there has been a tenfold increase in infections, compared to the first wave of the virus last year.
In the last fortnight, nearly 2,800 new cases have been confirmed. The Saolta Hospital Group says it is dealing with a huge increase in admissions at Galway and Portiuncula University Hospitals.
The situation is likely to continue or worsen over the coming weeks. There are 129 Covid-19 patients being treated at University Hospital Galway, with 11 in intensive care.