Nine new cases in people under 35

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has reported that a further two people with COVID-19 have died.

There have now been a total of 1,715 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland.

As of midnight Friday 19 June the HPSC also said it had been notified of 22 new confirmed cases of COVID-19.

There is now a total of 25,374 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.

The latest county breakdown, as of midnight, Thursday, shows that the number of cases in Offaly is unchanged, at 482

Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; “Of the 22 confirmed cases we are reporting to you today, 9 of these were diagnosed in people under the age of 35.

"It is important for us all to remember that COVID-19 is a disease that can affect everyone, of any age or background. No one should feel that this is a disease that does not affect them.”

“This virus is highly infectious and, as a result, the return of widespread community transmission remains a very real risk.

"To protect us all, especially our oldest and most vulnerable, personal preventative behaviours such as good and frequent hand washing, social distancing and respiratory etiquette remain as crucial as they were at the outset of this crisis.”