Northern Ireland

Fifteen more coronavirus cases recorded in north

Fifteen more positive cases of coronavirus have been detected in Northern Ireland
Fifteen more positive cases of coronavirus have been detected in Northern Ireland Fifteen more positive cases of coronavirus have been detected in Northern Ireland

Fifteen more positive cases of coronavirus have been detected in Northern Ireland, the Department of Health said.

The total number of people who have been infected is now 6,064.

No new deaths were recorded.

According to the department's figures, the total number of deaths sits at 556.

[ READ MORE: One coronavirus death recorded last week ]

The Stormont Executive announced yesterday that face coverings will become mandatory in all public enclosed spaces from Monday.

First Minister Arlene Foster voiced concern over the level of community transmission and rise in the R number to between 0.8 and 1.8.

The R rate is a key measure of how much coronavirus is spreading.

Commenting on the increase to the R number, chief scientific adviser Professor Ian Young said: "The most recent data for Northern Ireland underlines the need for continued vigilance.

"There are five key steps each of us can take to keep ourselves and others safe - rigorously maintain social distancing; wash our hands well and often; wear face coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is difficult; co-operate fully with the Test, Trace and Protect programme, and download the Stop Covid NI app."

The total number of people who have been infected with coronavirus in the north has risen to 6,064
The total number of people who have been infected with coronavirus in the north has risen to 6,064 The total number of people who have been infected with coronavirus in the north has risen to 6,064