No further COVID19 related deaths but over 100 new cases in NI

By Q Radio News

There have been no further COVID19 related deaths in Northern Ireland. 

It means the total number of fatalities recorded by the Department of Health remains at 2,155. 

However, a further 133 positive coronavirus cases have been confirmed here within the past 24 hours.

It comes after the health secretary told Sky News the government is looking at scrapping the 10-day self-isolation requirement for people who have had two jabs.

Matt Hancock said the move was "something that we're working on and I very much hope we'll be able to make progress soon".

He added: "We're always looking at how we can replace the restrictions we have had to have as a country with the protection you get from the vaccine, that's the whole point of the vaccine."

In a separate interview with the BBC, Mr Hancock said: "We're not ready to be able to take that step yet, but it's something that I want to see and we will introduce, subject to clinical advice, as soon as it's reasonable to do so."

Instead of isolating for 10 days if they come into contact with someone who has the virus, people would have to take daily COVID-19 tests.

It is unclear whether the proposal would only come in after all adults in the UK have been offered two doses.

There is likely to be pressure to ensure younger people do not lose out, as many will have to wait until autumn for their second dose.