Covid 19: Health Officials Report A Further 1,914 Cases

There are 413 patients being treated for the disease in hospital, with 73 in ICU.

The five day moving average is 1,685 cases.

The deputy chief medical officer, Ronan Glynn, says the incidence of Covid is 'high and rising'.

He says nearly 300,000 adults haven't come forward for vaccination - and they're at high risk of becoming severely unwell.

The Deputy Chief Medical Officer is also encouraging people to work from home where possible for the next couple of months.

It's after the phased return to offices started in September.

In a Twitter video Dr Ronan Glynn encouraged people to do their best to avoid spreading all viruses.

Health officials are advising everyone to be aware of the risk factors for getting COVID-19:

·Distance – the risk of getting COVID-19 increases as the distance between you and others gets smaller. Keep 2 metres apart where possible

·Activity – How you spend time with people and what you do with them can increase your risk. Follow the government’s Stay Safe Guidelines when spending time with others

·Time – The more time you spend in close contact with other people can increase your risk of getting COVID-19. Keep track of who you spend time with and how

·Environment – Being outdoors is safer than being indoors. Where possible, meet with others outdoors. If this is not possible, keep windows and doors open when meeting others inside

·Symptoms – Know the symptoms. If you have them self-isolate and contact your GP immediately

They are:

·a fever (high temperature - 38 degrees Celsius or above)

·a cough - this can be any kind of cough, not just dry

·shortness of breath or breathing difficulties

·loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

·flu like symptoms

“If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you must self isolate and phone your GP for further advice. 

If you have been referred for a test or are awaiting a test result, you must self isolate.

If you are a confirmed case of COVID-19 you must self isolate for 10 days.

If you are identified or have identified yourself as a close contact of a confirmed case, you must restrict your movements.

Department of Health’s COVID-19 Information Dashboard; providing latest case information.