14 further deaths and 212 new cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the Republic of Ireland.

The Department of Health released the latest figures on Wednesday evening. This brings the total number of deaths in the Republic of Ireland to 85, with 3,447 confirmed cases so far. The HSE have said they are now working to identify any contacts that the patients may have had to provide them with the information and advice to prevent further spread. Earlier today, 103 new cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Northern Ireland, and two more people have passed away. The total number of cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Northern Ireland is 689. Research conducted on behalf of the Department of Health found that 65 per cent of people in Ireland are engaging in digital interactions with their family and friends. The survey of 1,270 adults, which will be conducted twice a week, found that 89 per cent of people believe the current social distancing measures are appropriate;  94 per cent of people are confident in their ability to adhere to new restrictions; and 85 per cent of people feel they have adapted to changes since COVID-19 and know the steps to take if they develop symptoms. “Our research suggests that 1 in 3 people are worried about their health, with 3 out of 4 worried about the health of their families and friends," Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said. “People are taking action to look after their wellbeing. Two thirds of people are conversing with family and friend’s by using phone and internet." “Restrictions do not mean you stop maintaining your relationships or your health. Adapt your hobbies; go for walks, exercise and do the things that maintain wellbeing within the limits of physical distancing and public health advice," he continued. “I can confirm that expanded contact tracing for all confirmed cases for the 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms, as decided by National Public Health Emergency Team will commence this week. This will reduce transmission of the virus.” "The public health messaging remains the same for all patients awaiting testing. Assume you have COVID19 and isolate. Each and everyone of you can break the chain of transmission of the virus, save lives and reduce illness among vulnerable groups," Dr. Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE said.