Just 269 new cases of Covid-19 were reported on Sunday evening, the lowest number since mid-December.

This brings the total number of cases in the Republic to 243,508.

Of the 269 new cases, 70% were under the age of 45 and the median age of those affected was 31.

One more death was also announced, bringing the total number of deaths to 4,836.

As of April 16, over 838,000 people had received their first dose of a vaccine, while almost 350,000 had received their two doses.

According to the Department of Health's deputy chief medical officer, Dr Ronan Glynn, we have already seen the "fantastic impact" of vaccination among healthcare workers and in nursing homes.

"However, the declining incidence across all age groups in recent weeks cannot be attributed to vaccination, but rather to the enormous efforts of people across society to keep themselves and their families safe.

"If we can keep incidence relatively low over the coming weeks, vaccination will increasingly play a role in suppressing this virus. This will make it easier for all of us to balance the risks associated with COVID-19, while gradually easing public health measures," he explained.

Dr Glynn reminded people to follow the public health measures, including keeping your distance, wearing masks, working from home where possible and avoiding mixing with people from other households indoors.