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Some students at Queen’s University dormitories in Belfast have been told to self-isolate after a small number of them tested positive for Covid-19.
The buildings involved are understood to be in the Malone Road area, near the university in the south of the city.
Furthermore, Northern Ireland has been chosen as one of the areas to participate in a major UK trial of a possible vaccine to help in the fight against Covid-19.
Health officials are seeking 350 volunteers from Northern Ireland to take part in the trial, which is expected to start later in the week.
Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann urged the public to participate.
“The importance of finding a vaccine that helps in the battle against this virus cannot be overstated,” he added.
“Despite the magnificent efforts of our health service and the amazing response from society as a whole, we remain on the razor’s edge as we seek to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
“As we continue to implement all possible measures, there has never been a more important time for health research studies on the development of a Covid-19 vaccine.
“Currently more than 30 vaccine trials are being carried out around the world in an effort to find out as soon as possible which one will be safe and effective.
“It is vital that Northern Ireland joins this important global effort.”
A Northern Ireland Covid-19 Vaccine Research Delivery Group, led by the HSC research and development division of the Public Health Agency, has been established to conduct Covid-19 vaccine trials in Northern Ireland.
Novavax is conducting the test.
The test will take place at venues across the UK and the first entrants are expected to be recruited in Northern Ireland in early October.
Sinn Féin Northern Ireland leader Michelle O Neill is out of work today with a cold and will be tested for Covid-19 as a precaution. She is expected to return to Stormont tomorrow.
A Sinn Féin spokesman confirmed that the deputy prime minister hopes to participate in a planned meeting with US visiting envoy to Northern Ireland Mike Mulvaney in Belfast tomorrow.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister and DUP leader Arlene Foster missed some engagements due to a bad cold.
Additional reporting PA
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