By Q Radio News
Another 934 people have tested positive for coronavirus in Northern Ireland.
That is more than double the previous daily high of 424 on Wednesday.
The Department of Health has also confirmed that another person has died after contracting COVID19.
It brings the number of fatalities in hospitals here to 582.
The latest figures from the department show that the number of hospital inpatients with the virus is now 65, down from 70.
It comes as Stormont's chief scientific adviser urges residents here to prepare for the potential of multiple winter lockdowns.
Professor Ian Young said it is not yet certain whether intensive periods of lockdown will be required to halt the spread of the coronavirus but that it would be “sensible” for the public to plan on that basis.
His comments came after the devolved executive’s chief medical officer, Dr Michael McBride, also advised people to prepare for a potential second lockdown.
The Stormont Executive announced a wide-ranging series of restrictions for the Derry City and Strabane Council area on Thursday in an effort to stem the spiralling Covid-19 infection numbers in the north-west of Northern Ireland.
They include hospitality businesses being limited to takeaway, delivery and outdoor dining, and a call to avoid unnecessary travel.
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