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The Northern Ireland health department has confirmed 1,634 new cases of Covid-19 in the last two days.
There were 20 Covid-19-related deaths in the same 48-hour period.
It comes as the region’s health minister has urged the public to strictly adhere to his new lockdown measures.
Robin Swann asked everyone to “play their part” for the next six weeks, which he described as a “crucial period” in the pandemic.
“A house party on New Years Eve would not only be illegal. It could be a high-profile event, it could make people very seriously ill and it could even cost lives, “he said.
“We need another great collective effort across society to reduce Covid infection rates.
“We do this by reducing our contacts with others, staying home, keeping our distance from others if we need to be outdoors for good reason, and covering our faces and washing our hands.
“This will save lives and ease pressure on our healthcare service at this challenging time.
Rugged 2020
“I know how difficult 2020 has been and how fed up we are all with this virus. But I am confident that we can all unite once again at this critical moment, ”continued Swann.
He said the new year has “renewed hope with the launch of the vaccine,” but added: “We need a concerted and united push in the coming months to get us to a better place.”
“Please stay home as much as possible. Don’t be tempted to visit your friends this week. It’s not just about complying with regulations, it’s about keeping yourself and others safe. “
Ireland
Higher levels of Covid-19 in the community than case n …
Northern Ireland businesses closed once again when the new measures went into effect from St. Stephen’s Day.
This week, from December 26 to January 2, additional restrictions apply, including a form of curfew in operation starting at 8 p.m., with stores closed thereafter and all indoor and outdoor gatherings prohibited until 6 am
The sweeping measures also involve shutting down nonessential and close-contact retail services, such as hair salons, for the next six weeks. Hotel establishments are limited to take away food services.
The Northern Ireland Executive is underlining the “stay home” message this week with television and radio announcements.
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