One more Covid-related death as Minister calls on all aged over 60 to ‘book your vaccination now’

There has been one further Covid-related death reported by the Department of Health in Northern Ireland today (Saturday).

According to the official dashboard, the death occurred within the last 24 hour reporting period.

The ABC Borough accounts for 284 deaths overall. Newry, Mourne and Down District has a total of 164 deaths. Mid-Ulster currently has 199.

The overall total number of deaths recorded by the Department now stands at 2,098.

There were a further 146 positive cases reported in the last 24 hours, with 20 in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, a further 13 in Newry, Mourne and Down and eight in Mid-Ulster.

A total of 1,473 individuals were tested.

There are 180 – six less than yesterday – people now in hospital as a result of the virus, 24 of whom are in intensive care units.

There are currently 35 people in hospitals in the Southern Trust area – 14 in Craigavon and 21 in Lurgan – being treated for Covid-19.

There are currently 23 ICU beds available in Northern Ireland.

The figures come as Health Minister Robin Swann has reminded everyone aged 60 and over that the “best time to book their Covid-19 vaccination is now”.

The Minister said: “We will be extending the vaccination programme to other age groups before very long and that means many more people will be looking to fill appointment slots. So if you are eligible now, the best time to book is definitely now. Don’t delay in getting yourself protected.”

The appointments are for the seven regional vaccination centres, run by Trusts, and people are asked to book online if it all possible at vaccinations.covid-19.hscni.net/booking

If online booking is not possible, then the telephone booking number is 0300 200 7813.

The booking line is now open 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

Those who are in the 60 plus age range have the choice of being contacted by their GPs and receiving a jab, or booking themselves in at one of the seven centres – if they haven’t already been invited to receive the vaccine by their GP. If you have already been invited by your GP and confirmed, please do keep that appointment.

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