The head of the HSE Paul Reid says an increase in mixing and mobility has led to a rise in covid cases.
769 new cases were confirmed last night which is the highest number since the end of February.
This included 26 new cases in Co Galway, 18 in Roscommon and 6 in Mayo.
Health officials say while it's frustrating and disappointing, the vaccine offers hope in fighting the virus.
Dr Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health with the HSE West, says we must continue to follow the public health advice, while the vaccination programme is being rolled out.
Dr Smyth told Midwest News however that people across the West have already done a great job in reducing the levels of community transmission since early January....
