The Covid-19 death toll has climbed to 224, as the Health Ministry records a new high of nine fatalities in its update this afternoon.

Since the start of May a total of 55 patients have died, marking the deadliest month since the start of the pandemic. 

Meanwhile, 348 more people have tested positive for the virus, and 119 patients have fully recovered.

There are currently 335 patients in hospital, with 32 people having been discharged from public facilities over the last 24 hours. 

As it stands 60,487 people have received their first dose of the Astra Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine, while 1,179 others have  been fully vaccinated with a second dose. 

Members of the public are reminded that they must adhere to the ‘New Normal’ recommendations and take the following personal health measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19:

–Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when you go out in public

–Keep your distance from others (6 feet)

–Stay home if you are ill

–Clean then sanitize surfaces (e.g. tabletops, door knobs and cell phones)

–Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer

-Cough into a tissue or into the crook of your elbow

-Avoid touching your face

 If you or a loved one develops symptoms of COVID19, please call the hotline 877-WELL or 800- WELL (9355) for further guidance. If the person is severely ill, call the 811 (emergency hotline) or call ahead to the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest hospital for help and go in immediately.