Tests have confirmed that a case of the Omicron coronavirus variant has been confirmed in Ireland. The tests were conducted at the National Virus Reference Laboratory at UCD.
Dr Cillian de Gascun said that 14 samples were analysed over the weekend. Eight of the samples underwent whole geneome sequencing and one of those eight was confirmed as having the omicron variant on Tuesday.
Dr De Gascun said it is a travel associated case to one of designated countries which have confirmed cases of Omicron. Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said the NPHET Epidemiological Surveillance Team will continue to monitor this situation and provide advice to the Chief Medical Officer on an ongoing basis.