501,350 people in Ireland are now fully vaccinated.

The milestone was met today as it was revealed that more than 1.3m people in the Republic have now received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine.

According to chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan, everyone aged 50 or older should be able to access their first dose of the vaccine before the end of May, opening up the possibility of large concerts and sports events before the end of the summer.

COVID-19 Vaccines 🇮🇪
(Sunday / 09-05-21)

‣ At least one dose: 1,347,561 (+19,740)
‣ Fully vaccinated: 501,351 (+1,422)
‣ Total: 1,848,747 (+21,137)

‣ 16+ with at least one dose: ~34.5%
‣ 16+ fully vaccinated: ~12.8%

— COVID-19 Data Ireland (@COVID19DataIE) May 11, 2021

Meanwhile, a further 379 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported tonight, 22 of which were in Cork. There have been nine additonal deaths from the virus.

Of the cases notified today, 190 are men and 185 are women and 77% are under 45 years of age. The median age is 29 years old.

‘Let’s stay safe’

As Cork city centre springs back to life and businesses begin to reopen for appointments and click-and-collect services, health experts are pleading with the public to continue to follow hygiene social distancing guidelines.

“Let’s stay safe, and keep each other safe.” tweeted NPHET’s Professor Philip Nolan.

“Focus on outdoors, remember to keep our distance, wash our hands; and when indoors, wear masks and attend to ventilation. Importantly, self-isolate immediately and seek medical advice and a test if you develop any symptoms.”