Visitors from Denmark will no longer be allowed to travel to Northern Ireland following fears over a new coronavirus strain that spreads from mink to humans.
A number of public health measures have been introduced following the outbreak.
The UK Government has announced a travel ban on visitors from Denmark arriving in all UK airport or ports, taking effect from 4am on November 7.
It comes after health authorities in Denmark reported widespread outbreaks of coronavirus in mink farms, with a variant strain of the virus spreading to some local communities.
Meanwhile, anyone who has arrived back from Denmark into Northern Ireland since October 23 must self-isolate, along with all members of their household.
Northern Ireland travel regulations have also been amended to include the new legal requirements.
The inclusion of all household members in this case means these self-isolation rules are stricter than normal travel-related quarantine requirements.
Northern Ireland’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride said: “Self-isolation for anyone who has been in Denmark is a mandatory requirement and it applies to all members of the household.
“This is an emerging picture and a precautionary approach is required at this early stage.
“We are in very close contact with public health colleagues in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Minister Swann has also been in contact with his Republic of Ireland counterpart Stephen Donnelly."
“Advice and guidance have been issued to health service colleagues in Northern Ireland," he added.
“The UK authorities are working closely with international partners to understand the changes in the virus that have been reported in Denmark. A programme of further research in the UK will inform risk assessments.”
