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Christmas bubbles should be as small as possible, and people in Northern Ireland should consider forming them by December 25 only in the midst of a “new aggressive strain” of Covid-19.
Prime Minister Arlene Foster, Deputy Prime Minister Michelle O’Neill and Health Minister Robin Swann met yesterday with Medical Director Michael McBride and Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Ian Young as standards tightened in other parts of the Kingdom. United.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson canceled Christmas for millions of people in London and south-east England after scientists said a new variant of the coronavirus was spreading more rapidly.
Ms. O’Neill said: “Bubbly Christmas arrangements are in place for those who feel they need to join in.
“If you must use them, consider doing it for just one day, on Christmas Day.
“Keep your bubble as small as possible and gather for as little time as possible.
“We are clearly very concerned about the unfolding Covid-19 situation. The rate at which this variant strain of the virus is spreading is very concerning.”
Read more: Latest Covid-19 Stories
Yesterday, the Northern Ireland Department of Health confirmed that another 17 people with Covid-19 had died within a 24-hour period, bringing the death toll to 1,183.
Another 640 new cases of the virus were also reported in the region. There were 427 patients with Covid-19 in hospitals, 30 of them in ICU.
Ms Foster said: “The progression of a new variant strain of Covid-19 in England is concerning, and reminds all of us to be on guard against the dangers of the virus.
“The Executive has already taken significant measures at the beginning of this week before other regions.
“It is up to all of us to do what we can to minimize the risks of the spread of the coronavirus.
“We ask everyone to think carefully about all of their actions and rigorously follow public health advice.”
The Northern Ireland Executive decided last week to impose a six-week lockdown from December 26.
But under current plans, up to three households will be allowed to meet in “social bubbles” between 23 and 27 December, unlike the rest of the UK.
The first week of the measures will see the toughest lockdown yet in Northern Ireland, with a form of curfew in place from 8pm, shops closed thereafter, and all indoor and outdoor gatherings banned. until 6 am
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