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New figures show vaccine uptake in Laois is third lowest in the country – though incidence rate below average

Pfizer vaccine

Almost 86% of adults over the age of 18 in Laois have had at least one Covid-19 vaccine, according to HSE figures published by the Irish Independent today.

That percentage means that Laois is above only Monaghan and Donegal in terms of the percentage of people vaccinated up to August 22.

The Portlaoise walk-in vaccination centre is open all day today from 10.30am to 6pm for all ages from 12 upwards.

The HSE’s county-by-county breakdown shows that nearly 99% of adults in Waterford have had at least one dose of the vaccine while Carlow, Tipperary, Wexford, Sligo and Wicklow are all above 95%.

The two counties with the lowest vaccination rate – Monaghan and Donegal – currently have the highest incidence rate of the virus at 1,547.6 and 1,159 per 100,000 people.

However, that trend isn’t replicated in Laois where the incidence rate is the fifth lowest in the country at 377.8. Only Wexford, Cork, Kilkenny and Clare have a lower rate up to last Sunday, August 29.

Overall Ireland has the second highest vaccination uptake rate in the EU – bettered only by Malta. On average just under 92% of adults have at least one vaccine.

The figures come as the country prepares for a continued relaxation of restrictions over the coming weeks. 

By October 22, all Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted except for the necessity to wear masks in healthcare settings, public transport and in shops.

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