HSE Chief Executive Paul Reid has said the overall picture with regard to Covid-19 in Ireland is continuing to improve, albeit "at a slower rate".
Speaking at the HSE's weekly briefing on Covid-19, Mr Reid said "positive signs of the impact of the vaccine" are being seen in incidence rates across older people.
He also said transmission of the virus has significantly reduced in healthcare settings, which he said shows the "early benefits of vaccinations".
The number of healthcare setting-acquired infection has fallen to 478, down from 1050. Mr Reid said the fact that the vast majority of people are supporting the public health measures is leading to a better situation in hospitals.