ONE in four Irish adults have been fully vaccinated against coronavirus, the HSE has confirmed.
Ireland has now administered around 2.9 million doses of the vaccine, and just over half the adult population (53%) has received at least one jab.
It's understood that just over 900,000 people have now been fully vaccinated, accounting for a quarter of the nation's adult population.
The figures were confirmed by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly as well as HSE chief Paul Reid during a health update at Dr Steevens' Hospital on Thursday.
"The programme continues at pace in vaccination centres and with GPs. Continued and strong benefits occurring," said Mr Reid.
Minister Donnelly added that there was a "continued high uptake in age groups for vaccines" and reminded the public that registration is open for all adults aged between 43 and 69.
The positive news comes just days before Ireland's pubs open again.
In what will be the most significant reopening of the hospitality sector in over a year, pubs, restaurants and cafes will be able to serve customers in outdoor areas across the country from Monday.
Last weekend, swathes of people flocked to the streets and to local parks to make the most of sunshine, and with pubs opening next week, there are concerns that public health guidance will be ignored.
Following what has been described as a "significant increase" in Covid-19 cases in Co. Limerick, Ireland's Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has urged the public to "avoid crowds, wear a mask where appropriate, wash your hands and maintain social distance."
