Northern Ireland

Covid-19: Three more deaths and 1,469 new cases

The north's seven day infection rate is 630 per 100,000, the highest level since August 23
The north's seven day infection rate is 630 per 100,000, the highest level since August 23 The north's seven day infection rate is 630 per 100,000, the highest level since August 23

Another three deaths linked to Covid-19 have been recorded by the Department of Health.

The death toll since the pandemic began now stands at 2,843.

A further 1,469 positive Covid cases have also been recorded, bringing the total number to 306,051.

Over the past seven days, the Department said 11,930 individuals have tested positive in Northern Ireland.

This morning there were 378 patients who had tested positive for the virus in hospital and 36 in intensive care. Of these, 26 are on ventilators.

There are 15 unoccupied ICU beds in the north.

Overall, hospitals are over capacity by 81 beds.

The north's seven day infection rate is 630 per 100,000, the highest level since August 23.

Today's figures were released after five intensive care nurses have quit their jobs at Northern Ireland's biggest health trust in a fortnight - with some seeking work in the private sector.

The Irish News has learned the departures took place at the Belfast health trust over the past month, and some other ICU nurses are considering their position due to "stress and burnout".

A trust spokesman was unable to comment on the resignations but said the pandemic had placed "considerable pressure on the health service" and required "additional ICU capacity going into the winter period".