The number of Covid-19 infections in Northern Ireland will increase due to Christmas get-togethers, Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride has said.
Tougher restrictions are being introduced for a fortnight from Friday but three households will then be allowed to meet over the festive season.
Health Minister Robin Swann said: "This is a time to unite to get the best outcome from these next two weeks. "Our actions now will have a huge bearing on the kind of Christmas that we all can have." He said people needed to look after loved ones and minimise spread of infection, adding: "A festive free-for-all would generate a new year crisis." Seven more Covid-19 related deaths were recorded in Northern Ireland today by the Department of Health.