1,828 new Covid-19 cases reported in Ireland, the highest since January

Nearly 200 patients are in hospital with the virus.

1,828 new cases of Covid-19 were reported in Ireland on Saturday, the highest number since 23 January. The figures released from the Department of Health 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 Saturday, 198 Covid-19 patients are hospitalised, of which 33 are in ICU.

As of midnight, Friday 6 August, we are reporting 1,828* confirmed cases of #COVID19.

As of 8am today, 198 #COVID19 patients are hospitalised, of which 33 are in ICU. *Daily case numbers may change due to future data validation and update. — Department of Health (@roinnslainte) August 7, 2021

In a statement on Friday, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan reminded the public that the HSE are operating additional walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centres across Ireland this weekend. "This time last year, we could not have hoped for such highly safe and effective vaccines to aid us in suppressing this virus, nor that we would in fact have a range of them to use," Holohan said. "The Covid-19 vaccination programme shows not only the best of scientific endeavour, but also commendable solidarity in those who come forward to receive a vaccine for the good of their wider community. "I strongly encourage anyone still awaiting their Covid-19 vaccine to avail of these vaccination centres this weekend. "These vaccines are very effective at protecting against the worst effects of Covid-19. Not only do they offer personal protection, but the more of us who receive a vaccine, the safer we all are as a group." On Saturday morning, HSE CEO Paul Reid said that Ireland was at a "key juncture" in the fight against Covid-19, with 77% of the adult public fully vaccinated but rising cases still posing "a real threat".

We're at a key juncture to path our way out of #COVID19. With 77% of adults fully vaccinated, rising cases still pose a real threat. Two types of walk in centres play a key role this weekend, ie to receive a first vaccination or a Covid test. Please avail as appropriate @HSELive

— Paul Reid (@paulreiddublin) August 7, 2021

"Two types of walk-in centres play a key role this weekend, ie to receive a first vaccination or a Covid test. Please avail as appropriate," the HSE chief said. Details of the walk-in centres and their operating times can be found on the HSE's website here.