NPHET says there will be a "significant" number of deaths linked to Covid-19 in the days and weeks ahead.
A further 28 deaths were confirmed last night, bringing the total this month to 208 - and some of those who've died have been as young as 25.
Health officials also reported 3,955 new cases - and nearly as many people have tested positive in the last 2 weeks as in all of 2020.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn says everyone following the public health advice can stop more people becoming seriously ill.
Monaghan remains top of the list when it comes to the incidence rates nationally at 2,793.
66 more cases were confirmed in the county yesterday.
Meanwhile Cavan continues to move down the list and is now 12th highest nationally with a rate of 1,543, after 74 cases yesterday.
Both are still above the national average.
