PEOPLE classed as clinically extremely vulnerable are being advised to no longer attend work if they cannot work from home due to a surge in coronavirus cases.
The Department of Health yesterday issued the "strengthened advice" with Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride stressing it was "not a return to shielding".
Department officials said "people are free to make their own judgements depending on the Covid-security of their working environment".
The new advice comes into effect from December 26, when stringent lockdown measures will be imposed across the north.
Dr McBride said: "This strengthened advice is intended to offer enhanced protection from Covid-19 to the most vulnerable people in our society.
"It is not a return to shielding as we knew it at the outset of the pandemic. We are not advising CEV people to stay permanently indoors, and I would encourage CEV people to continue to go outside for exercise, provided they observe social distancing when they do so."
Those affected are also reminded to consider plans for Christmas bubble arrangements.
"Unfortunately you remain extremely vulnerable to this virus and the safest options is not to form a Christmas bubble and avoid attending shops, pharmacies and hospitality settings unless absolutely necessary," the department guidance states.
If people do wish to meet with family, it should be for as short a time as possible with very strict precautions.
This advice will be in place for six weeks initially, but reviewed after four weeks.
Health Minister Robin Swann has also issued updated guidance for visiting people in care homes over Christmas.
Covid-19 testing is available to one visitor per care home resident per week over the Christmas period and up to January 8.
