Public thanked for their continuing efforts to limit Omicron spread

Health data has indicated that COVID-19 case numbers are likely to be at or around peak in this Omicron wave and the Stormont Executive has thanked the public for their ongoing efforts to limit the spread of the virus.

The Executive have said that the impact of Omicron continues to be a matter of concern and that community transmission will remain high over the coming weeks. Hospital pressures are severe and it will take more time to determine when they have peaked. They are asking everyone to keep doing all they can to protect themselves, protect others and protect the health service.

Evidence suggests that Omicron is considerably less severe than previous variants of the virus but its transmissibility which has resulted in very high numbers of cases across the community, is hugely disruptive putting the workforce, essential services and the economy under significant strain for a number of weeks.

The Executive are continuing to urge everyone who is eligible to get the booster vaccine. "The evidence shows that this third dose provides vital additional protection from the virus and dramatically reduces the chances of getting seriously ill with COVID." a spokesperson said adding "Wearing a face covering in public indoor spaces is a vital measure in preventing the spread of COVID, and it is a legal requirement. We are asking everyone without a genuine medical exemption to do the right thing. Wear a face covering to protect yourself and those around you."

The public are being asked to continue to take all precautions:

• Get your vaccines, including your booster;
• Limit your contacts with other people;
• Take regular lateral flow tests, particularly before meeting others, and report the result online;
• Work from home if possible;
• Wear a face covering in indoor public spaces;
• Meet outdoors when possible;
• If meeting indoors, make sure the rooms are well ventilated; and
• Practise good hand and respiratory hygiene.

The current package of measures to manage the Omicron variant remains in place and we continue to keep the situation under close review.