UPDATE: 'surge' in Covid-19 cases expected in NI over next few days
Health Minister Robin Swann warns 'stick to social distancing or face exercise ban'
Northern Ireland is bracing itself for an expected surge in Coronavirus cases.
According to experts there will be a peak in Covid-19 cases over the coming days.
So far 63 people have died here after contracting the virus, and more than 1,000 have tested positive.
But those numbers are predicted to keep rising.
Last week the Department of Health set out the findings of an expert modelling study.
It revealed the peak of the first wave of the epidemic is expected to hit between today and April 20.
The health service has been preparing for this by introducing new measurements including:
- a new Nightingale Hospital has been set up at the tower-block of Belfast City Hospital with 230 beds for covid-19 patients,
- health workers can now get tested at a drive-through site at the SSE arena.
Meanwhile, the Health Minister has urged the public to stick to social distancing rules to avoid an exercise ban.
Robin Swann was speaking after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he would take away exercise as a reason to leave home if too many flout the rules.
His warning came ahead of the Queen's address to the nation, in which she will urge the country to prove that this generation is "as strong as any''.
Mr Swann said no one would want to take such a measure if it could be avoided.
"It can be prevented if everyone continues to do the right thing,'' he said.
"That means staying at home, only going out if it's necessary and keeping our distance if we do have to go out.
"I am very encouraged by the extent to which people across Northern Ireland are following the guidance.
"The message for this week is: stick with the fightback against Covid-19. We must never let our guard down if we want to protect ourselves, protect our health service and save lives. Any hints of complacency and impatience must be strongly resisted.''
He added: "I am keenly aware that any further restrictions on outdoor exercise could fall heavily on particular sections of our community, including those who do not have access to a garden or other outdoor space.
"That's another reason why we must stick with the fightback and all that it involves.
"Stick together, stay apart and look after each other.''