A rise in Covid-19 is expected and is 'no surprise'.
Cases of the virus have jumped by a fifth on a fortnight ago, with 550 new cases detected in the past week.
The HSE is urging people to get their Covid booster vaccine before Christmas.
Irish Medical Organisation GP Sub Committee Chair, Dr Denis McCauley says certain groups at risk should get the booster jab:
"If they haven't had their third booster, I would really recommend that they do so. We know that the Omicron isn't as severe as previous incarnations, but if you have an immune issue or if you're over 60, and you haven't had a booster, this could have significant effects on your health over the Christmas period".
