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23rd Jul 2021

1,386 new Covid-19 cases reported in Ireland as NPHET warns of vaccine misinformation

Stephen Porzio

The Deputy CMO said misinformation has undermined vaccination efforts in many countries.

1,386 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Ireland as NPHET has warned about misinformation undermining the country’s vaccination efforts.

The figures released from the Department of Health on Friday did not contain information regarding deaths related to Covid-19.

The Department of Health’s statement said that the number of daily cases may also change due to future data validation.

As of 8am on Friday, 106 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 22 are in ICU.

In a statement accompanying the figures, Deputy Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Ronan Glynn said that the Covid-19 pandemic has provided a “prime example” of how easily misinformation can spread online.

He stated that many people have been exposed to information that is “false, inaccurate or misleading”, including about potential Covid-19 vaccines even before they had been developed.

“Unfortunately, it has undermined vaccination efforts in many countries, prolonging the pandemic and putting lives at risk,” Glynn said.

“All of us together can help to stop the spread of misinformation. Remember not every post on social media is reliable or accurate – if you are not sure, then don’t share.”

Glynn said that Ireland is fortunate to have “very high levels of vaccine confidence with fantastic uptake across all age groups to date”.

“Of course, many people will have questions about their vaccine but it is important that they access accurate and reliable information in order to get these questions answered,” he added.

“Do not rely on unsubstantiated information shared online. Instead, go to trusted sources, including hse.ie and gov.ie.

“GPs and healthcare professionals will also be able to answer any questions you may have when you go to your vaccine appointment.”

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