The Department of Education is considering advice from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre that could result in all secondary school students wearing face coverings.
It is understood these measures are being considered with teachers' unions and other key education stakeholders today. It is also understood that the Department will announce guidance for schools today on procuring supplies of cleaning equipment, face coverings, sanitiser and Personal Protection Equipment.
Meanwhile, the National Public Health Emergency Team has not ruled out advising localised restrictions in the midlands after a huge surge in cases there linked to outbreaks.