Homeless people are being prioritised for coronavirus tests, the head of the Housing Executive has said.
Chief executive Clark Bailie said testing has already begun.
"The model ‘Test, Triage, Cohort and Care’ is being adopted in Northern Ireland and those that are homeless have been identified as a priority for Covid-19 testing, which has already commenced," he said.
No homeless people were reported to have slept on the streets of Belfast and Derry for the second weekend in a row.
The Housing Executive has approved several emergency measures, including sourcing additional temporary accommodation for those who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.
Mr Bailie said the executive was working with the Public Health Agency, the Health & Social Care Board and homeless charities and groups to reduce the impact of the coronavirus on vulnerable people.
"Specific guidance has been issued and the need for PPE (personal protective equipment) and the testing of those symptomatic people who are experiencing homelessness has been identified," he said.
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey thanked those working to curb the spread of coronavirus.
"I do not underestimate the challenges this situation presents to the homelessness sector," she said.
"I want to thank everyone working so tirelessly and pulling together to support the most vulnerable at this most challenging time. I am proud of all your efforts."
