Covid-19 latest: 390 new cases today, bringing the total to close to 5,000

ALMOST 5,000 people have now been diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland, the Department of Health yesterday revealed. 

There were 390 new cases of Covid-19 in Ireland as of 1pm yesterday, bringing the total number of cases in the Republic to 4,994. 

21 patients diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland died yesterday.

Of those deaths, 17 were located in the east, two in the south and two in the west of the country. 

The patients included nine females and 12 males. 

12 patients were reported as having underlying health conditions.

Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, Dr Tony Holohan yesterday thanked people for complying with government directives.

"This past week has proven that the nation is working hard, together, by staying at home to flatten the curve," he said.

"If you develop symptoms of Covid-19 you need to self-isolate and phone your GP. 

"I ask that everyone inform themselves on what to do in the instance they develop symptoms, as well as how to maintain their health and wellbeing," Dr Holohan continued.

So far, there have now been 158 Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland. 

The median age of deaths in Ireland is 81.

Yesterday it came to light that the Taoiseach has re-registered as a doctor and will be offering his services to the HSE during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Leo Varadkar has offered to work on the front line once a week to help in the ongoing battle against coronavirus.

It is understood Mr Varadkar, who was a doctor for seven years before becoming a politician, signed up to the Medical Register last month, and will be conducting phone consultations with patients.

A spokesman for the Department of Taoiseach said: 

"He has offered his services to the HSE for one session a week in areas that are within his scope of practice.

"Many of his family and friends are working in the health service. He wanted to help out in a small way."

Mr Varadkar has worked in a number of hospitals across the country including Beaumont, Blanchardstown, Crumlin Children’s Hospital, Holles Street, and Tallaght in Dublin, as well as stints in hospital's in Navan and Wexford.

His partner Matt is currently working as a doctor in Dublin.