Covid-19 latest: 294 new cases, as govt confirm we’ll need booster shots this year & in 2022

Health officials have confirmed 294 new cases of Covid-19.

39 patients are currently in hospital with the virus, down 14 in 24 hours, and the lowest number of Covid patients in hospital since September 1st.

While 13 people are in ICU, unchanged from Monday.

A large amount of the population will need Covid booster shots this year and in 2022, according to a government spokesperson.

Cabinet was told Ireland has agreed to purchase 2.9 million doses of the Moderna and Jannsen vaccines for next year.

Ministers were also updated on the spread of the Delta variant of Covid ahead of decisions on further re-opening next week.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the pace of re-opening will depend on whether the spread of Covid spikes again.