1,501 new Covid-19 cases reported as CMO says vaccinations leading to “turning point” in pandemic

"Vaccination and the incredible uptake across many age groups is leading us to a turning point in the pandemic."

There have been 1,501 new cases of Covid-19 reported in Ireland, as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan has said vaccinations are leading Ireland to a "turning point" in the pandemic 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 today, 169 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 23 are in ICU.

As of midnight, Thursday 29th July, we are reporting 1,501* confirmed cases of #COVID19.

23 in ICU. 169 in hospital.

*Daily case numbers may change due to future data review, validation and update

— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) July 30, 2021

In a statement accompanying the figures, the CMO said: "This week vaccination is open to anyone over the age of 16 and those aged 12-15 will be able to register soon. Walk-in vaccination centres are now available for those yet to receive a first dose. "If you have a child with an underlying medical condition, that is living in a household where there are other people at risk, please avail of vaccination at the earliest opportunity." Holohan said that vaccination and "the incredible uptake" across many age groups is leading Ireland to "a turning point in the pandemic". "If we experience similar uptake in the younger cohorts as experienced in the over 60’s, Ireland will have a strong population level defence against Covid-19 and its known variants," he added. Deputy CMO Dr Ronan Glynn also stated: "If you experience any symptoms of a cold or flu, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, change in taste or smell, headache, sore throat, runny nose or blocked nose/sinuses, please isolate and come forward for a test. "There are testing centres located in every county in Ireland."