34% of NI COVID-19 patients are under 44

Forty-four of 128 confirmed cases are under the age of 44; 44 patients are between 45 and 69 years-old and 40 patients are 70 years of age and older.

It is not known how many of the 128 patients to test positive were hospitalised or received intensive care treatment.

Two patients to test positive for COVID-19 in Northern Ireland have died.

The deceased were both described as elderly and as having underlying health conditions.

Fifty-five of the 128 patients to test positive are female and 73 are male.

The information concerning age and gender of all positive cases was released by the Department of Health on Sunday afternoon.

Health Minister Robin Swann expressed sadness at the news a second patient had died.

“My deepest condolences go to the friends and family of this patient. This heart-breaking news should bring it home to every one of us that coronavirus is a real and present danger across our community.

“It is essential that we all follow the public health advice on keeping a safe distance, washing our hands and staying at home. We all must ensure we reduce our social interactions and we must not make unnecessary visits or take unnecessary journeys."

Minister Swann added: “We have received concerning reports of a minority of people who are flouting our social distancing advice. These behaviours are putting the people themselves, their families and their friends and neighbours at risk.

“Coronavirus is a threat across generations and all walks of life. We all need to unite to fight against it."