Twenty-one people have been tested for the coronavirus COVID-19 in Northern Ireland.
Of the 21, none have tested positive, according to the Public Health Agency.
The update comes as the health service in Northern Ireland continues to put in place comprehensive arrangements for dealing with this global public health issue.
Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said the Public Health Agency is working with partners across the UK, including Public Health England, as well as the Department of Health and health trusts in Northern Ireland, and the health service in the Republic of Ireland, on the ongoing global novel coronavirus response.
Dr Waldron said the health service here is monitoring for any potential cases of COVID-19.
“Belfast Trust’s Regional Viral Laboratory is now one of 12 UK centres testing for novel coronavirus. Until this week, all samples taken from people suspected of having the virus in Northern Ireland were sent to England for testing, but the new local facility will speed up results,” he said.
And he said a helpline has also been established for anyone in Northern Ireland who has travelled to China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and Macau in the past 14 days.
The helpline number is 0300 200 7885 and is available 24/7.
“To help reduce any potential spread of coronavirus, we are urging people to follow the steps that we recommend for similar illnesses such as cold and flu – catch, bin it, kill it. Always carry tissues to catch your cough or sneeze, dispose of the tissue as soon as possible after using it, and clean your hands as soon as you can as germs can spread to every surface you touch,” added Dr Waldron.
The humanitarian cost has continued to mount. More than 1,100 people have died worldwide with some 44,000 confirmed to be infected in mainland China.
Formula One’s Chinese Grand Prix, which was due to be held in April, has been postponed.
Coronavirus update – 2pm, 12 February 2020: in Northern Ireland there have been 21 concluded tests, of which 21 were confirmed negative, and 0 were confirmed positive.#COVID19 #COVID pic.twitter.com/tsnwiJo5yD
— Public Health Agency (@publichealthni) February 12, 2020