COVID-19 UPDATE - 1 further death and 636 new cases

By PA and Q Radio News

A further 636 cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Northern Ireland, the Department of Health said.

One further coronavirus-linked death has also been reported, bringing the toll to 2,159.

On Wednesday morning there were 72 Covid-19 positive patients in hospital, with two in intensive care.

To date, 2,137,591 vaccines have been administered.

COVID-19 UPDATE -

1 new Covid-19 related death has been recorded in Northern Ireland.

636 new cases of the virus have also been detected here in the past 24 hours, according to the Department of Health. https://t.co/mRwAID8JcA

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) July 14, 2021

The figures come as Health Minister Robin Swann has appealed to friends and parents of young people aged 18 and over to encourage them to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

From today, all Northern Ireland’s regional vaccination centres are providing walk-in jabs without any need to book an appointment.

While more than 2,100,000 vaccines have already been administered in Northern Ireland, concerns have been raised about a slower uptake among young people.

Mr Swann said: “I am not asking for pester power or nagging.

“Just please make sure your friends and children in the 18 plus age group make an informed decision on vaccination and are fully aware of everything that’s at stake.

“Sit down with them and have the conversation.

“When young people get the jab, they protect themselves, their parents, their grandparents and all those who are close to them.

“Each vaccination takes us a step closer to normality.

“Being double jabbed will open doors for people.

“We see that with travel and the vaccine certification requirements for holidays abroad.”

He added: “My message to young people is: don’t be left behind, don’t be left without the protection and opportunities that getting double jabbed brings.”