Twelve more deaths from COVID-19 have been reported, as well we 431 new cases of the virus.

Of the 12 deaths, four occurred this month, two in March and six in January. The average age of those who died was 76 and the age range was 42-91. There have now been a total of 4,812 deaths in the Republic.

Of the 431 new cases, 160 occurred in Dublin, 50 in Kildare, 34 in Donegal, 21 in Meath and 20 in Limerick. The total number of cases now stands at 242,105.

As of 8am on Wednesday, there were 192 patients with COVID-19 in hospitals, 49 of whom were in ICU. There had been 13 additional hospitalisations in the past 24 hours.

As of April 12, 1,076,216 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine had been administered. Over 317,000 people have received both of their two doses.

Meanwhile, the HSE is inviting those aged between 65 and 69 to register for the AstraZeneca vaccine from 10am on Thursday, April 15. This amounts to around 180,000 people. They will be vaccinated at vaccination centres nationwide throughout April and May.

"Our vaccination programme is now moving into an important new phase. We are introducing a new registration system and inviting everyone aged 65-69 to register online. To avoid delays when we open registrations, we are asking people to register by age on specific days initially," the HSE said.

-Those aged 69 can register on Thursday, April 15, or any time after
-Those aged 68 can register on Friday, April 16, or any time after
-Those aged 67 can register on Saturday, April 17, or any time after
-Those aged 66 can register on Sunday, April 18, or any time after
-Those aged 65 can register on Monday, April 19, or any time after.

The HSE added that registration will stay open for people in this age group after April 19.

Vaccinations for this group are expected to start around one week after registration begins. Appointment details will be sent by text message three to seven days before the vaccination is due to take place.

Registrations will begin here from April 15. You will need your PPS number, Eircode, a mobile phone number and an email address. People can call 1850 24 1850 for assistance with this registration process.