A possible outbreak of the Delta variant has been identified in Athlone, Co Westmeath.
iRadio Stock ImageBut health officials in the midlands say it's not yet confirmed as the strain first discovered in India.
The HSE says the Covid-19 cases were linked to socialising on Friday June 11, with reports of house parties in the area that night.
It comes as the Tanaiste says there’s reason for concern but not reason for panic over the Delta variant.
Leo Varadkar says the strain, will become the dominant strain here.
It accounted for 20 per cent of new covid cases in Ireland last week.
Speaking on his way into Cabinet, the Tanaiste said the further reopening of the country can happen in July.
Meanwhile, anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to Covid in Athlone is urged to get a test.
⚠️ Anyone socialising in Athlone on the evening of Friday June 11 is asked to attend a free COVID test if they think they may have been exposed.
Public Health dept investigating cases that “may be the Delta variant”.#COVID19ireland @VirginMediaNews pic.twitter.com/5vGTucylCB
— Richard Chambers (@newschambers) June 21, 2021
