Coronavirus: ‘NI is starting to feel the difference from social distancing – but we’re nowhere near point of stopping’

That was the message from a press conference last night with health minister Robin Swann and the chief medical officer Michael McBride, as they revealed that – as of this afternoon – there were 55 people with Covid-19 in critical care in Northern Ireland.

The death toll from Covid-19 in Northern Ireland, according to the Public Health Agency, was 73 today (with 1,255 confirmed cases).

Mr Swann also said coronavirus had been reported in 20 care homes in the Province.

The Executive had earlier said “the peak of the first wave of the epidemic is expected between 6-20 April”, but the press conference gave no indication of when the “second wave” might hit.

Mr Swann said: “We’re only at the start of the potential peak. These measures do seem to be working, but they have to be maintained.

“Complacency can be our biggest enemy at this minute in time. Your actions today will affect where our health service is in two weeks’ time. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain the measures that are in place.”

Obeying the restrictions is the best way to thank the NHS, he said. He also told reporters there will be a beefed-up police presence over the traditional Easter holiday period, ensuring that people are travelling for “essential” reasons.

Dr McBride went on to add: “We are far, far too early to even begin contemplating – as the minister said – stepping back or stepping away from these measures. Because this virus is out there and will come straight back at us.”

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