By Q Radio News
A further 1,083 cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Northern Ireland, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.
That is almost double yesterday's figures of 636 new recorded positive test results.
The department reports that as of this morning there are currently 80 Covid-19 positive patients in hospital, with two in intensive care.
A further 1,083 cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Northern Ireland, according to the latest figures from the Department of Healthhttps://t.co/ldne2XLTPt
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) July 15, 2021
The sharp spike in new cases comes a week before the next wave of relaxations on Covid regulations in Northern Ireland.
On July 26, the region will see the end of social distancing requirements for outdoor activities and a reduction of the distance to one metre for indoor settings.
From that date, people returning from amber list countries who have been fully vaccinated in the UK will not have to self-isolate on arrival in Northern Ireland or take a test eight days after their return.
Some measures, such as theatres and concert halls being allowed to welcome back audiences and conferences and exhibitions being able to resume, need final ratification by Stormont ministers on July 22.
Under the plans, a limit on gatherings in private homes would increase from six to 10, from no more than three households, while 15 people from any number of households can meet in a private garden.
The legal requirement to wear face coverings in places of worship is also set to be removed on July 26, and in terms of schools, classroom bubbling and the use of face masks in classes are to be removed from guidance.
(There has been a steep rise in Covid cases in the space of 24 hours)
The Health Minister Robin Swann has admitted the spike in cases is concerning.
He said:
“We have seen the numbers climb in recent weeks but today’s spike in cases is cause for concern. This is the first time since January that we’re reporting a daily change of over 1,000 positive cases, and while we are in a more fortunate position with a large proportion of the population now vaccinated we must remain cautious.
“We need everyone to play their part in helping to stop the spread of the virus. Our advice remains the same – stick to guidelines and regulations, all adults aged 18 and over should get vaccinated, and ensure you and your close contacts self-isolate if you test positive.
“Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in cases in the younger age group so I would make a particular appeal to this group to get vaccinated. Covid-19 has left many with debilitating long-term health issues, don’t put yourself at risk, get the vaccine.
“We all want to enjoy the summer but we must continue to do it safely.”
Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride said: “Vaccination is key to preventing serious illness and with such high infection levels circulating in the community it is vital that all those eligible for vaccination come forward for their jab. Our vaccination programme has been very successful and there is no doubt that many people are alive in Northern Ireland today because they have been vaccinated.
The Chief Medical Officer continued: “Our health system is at the point where it is struggling to cope with current levels of demand for care. We simply cannot continue to add more pressure. We must work together to drive down infection levels. This means we must all continue to follow the behaviours that we are all accustomed to, and that we know limit the spread of the virus.”
(Medical chiefs are urging younger people to get vaccinated to stop the spread of the virus)
Earlier First Minister Paul Givan encouraged take up of the coronavirus vaccine as he received his second dose at the SSE Arena in Belfast.
He described the vaccine as key to escaping the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic and the impact on our lives.
Mr Givan described “strength in numbers” as important, adding: “the more people get vaccinated the better equipped we are collectively we are to fight this virus”.
To date, 2,145,799 vaccines have been administered.
(The first minister says vaccine take-up is the only way to drive down case numbers)
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