Merits of localised lockdowns in NI to be looked at as COVID cases in various areas of Derry and Limavady reported

Meanwhile a picture is emerging that shows Derry’s rural hinterland and a region outside Limavady are the latest areas affected by COVID-19, with small numbers in areas including Drumsurn, Ardmore, Claudy and Dungiven regions testing positive over recent days.

Some of those affected have reported having no symptoms prior to taking the test.

A mobile testing unit has been set up at the North West Regional College site in Limavady following the identification of a COVID-19 cluster resulting from a residential gathering in the Drumsurn village area. The Public Health Agency has confirmed that between 10 and 20 cases connected with this event have been identified so far, with contact tracing and testing being conducted to help prevent any further spread.

Health Minister Robin Swann said it has long been anticipated and warned that clusters will happen, while senior figures within the Executive are expected to meet this week to debate whether localised lockdowns may in future be a useful means of containing an outbreak.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride said that the identification of the new cluster “underlines once again that we have to keep up our guard against Covid-19”. “Social gatherings in private residences have been an issue on both sides of the border. We have made important strides forward against the virus, but we must always remember that we have a long way to go. We face a very uncertain next few months and the very real prospect of a very challenging autumn and winter,” he said.

St Mary’s Church in Ardmore meanwhile has been closed once again to worshippers after two parishioners tested positive.

Father Neil Farren told parishioners in a Facebook video: “Hopefully all of you will remain in good health, and to all of you remember, stay safe with good hand hygiene and social distancing. I wish you all well, good health to everyone and God bless. Stay safe.”

Meanwhile the NI Statistics & Research Agency has reported that one additional COVID-related death has been registered in the Derry & Strabane Council area.

The death was among three involving COVID-19 which occurred in NI in the week to July 10. This brings the total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Derry & Strabane to 29.