87 new cases of covid-19 confirmed in NI

by Q Radio News

Latest figures from the Department of Health show 87 individuals have tested positive for covid-19 in Northern Ireland in the last 24 hours. 

It brings the total number of confirmed cases in the region to 8,314. 

No further deaths have been announced, therefore the death toll remains at 568. 

The department's dashboard shows one person in Northern Ireland is being treated in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with covid-19. 

Meanwhile, in the last seven days 553 people tested positive for covid-19 in Northern Ireland. 

The majority of those confirmed cases, 233 were individuals aged between 20-39. 

In a bid to clamp down on coronavirus cases rises, new localised restrictions will come into force tomorrow in some parts of Northern Ireland. 

People living in the Belfast council area, Ballymena town and postcode areas BT43, BT28 and BT29 have been given guidance discouraging non-essential journeys outside the affected zones.

There will also be new legally-enforceable social restrictions – residents in these areas cannot visit other households.

Exceptions include those in a social bubble with one other household and those with caring responsibilities including childcare.

No more than six people, from no more than two households, will be permitted to meet in private gardens.

The restrictions will be in place for a minimum of two weeks.