COVID-19 update: 3 further deaths and 138 new cases confirmed

By Q Radio News

A further three people have died linked to Coronavirus in Northern Ireland.

The death toll according to the Department of Health now stands at 2,075.

COVID-19 UPDATE -

3 more Covid-19 deaths have been recorded in Northern Ireland.

A further 138 people have tested positive for the virus here, in the past 24 hours. pic.twitter.com/OJeVBAofDZ

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) March 7, 2021

Another 138 people have tested positive for the virus in the last 24 hours here.

There are 227 patients with Covid-19 in local hospitals, with 33 in intensive care.

The Stormont Executive published its blueprint for exiting lockdown restrictions last week.

It focuses on nine key areas – retail, hospitality, education and young people, work, culture, heritage and entertainment, sports and leisure, travel and tourism, worship and ceremonies, home and community.

Ministers were criticised for not including dates for the return of each sector.

But they said decisions on moving between stages will be based on scientific and medical evidence, not the calendar.

Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill has said ministers hope the process of exiting lockdown will be well advanced by June 10th.

The Department of Health #COVID19 dashboard has been updated.

138 individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours. Sadly, 3 further deaths have been reported.https://t.co/1T7yam4O9f pic.twitter.com/uucZ5oCijZ

— Department of Health (@healthdpt) March 7, 2021

Meanwhile,

24 patients are currently on ventilators in hospital, as a result of the virus.

There are 18 confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks at hospitals here.