Three further coronavirus-related deaths have been reported in Northern Ireland on Thursday.
The death toll from the Department of Health now stands at 2,236.
Two of the fatalities are said to have occurred during the current reporting period, and one outside of it.
A further 1,610 positive Covid cases have also been recorded in NI today.
This brings the total number of positive cases to 171,477 since the start of the pandemic, according to the Department of Health.
Over the past seven days, the Department said 9,446 individuals have tested positive in Northern Ireland.
According to figures released on Thursday, there are currently 341 Covid-19 confirmed patients in hospital and 42 in intensive care.
Meanwhile, the Northern Ireland Executive is reported to have agreed to change self-isolation rules.
Ministers examined a proposal on Thursday to bring regulations into line with the rest of the UK, meaning people who are deemed close-contacts with positive Covid-19 cases will no longer have to isolate for 10 days if they test negative and are fully vaccinated.
This is believed to come into force from next week, according to the BBC.
It is also understood the Executive has agreed to drop bubbles in schools, but face coverings are to be worn in post-primary classes during the first six weeks of term, which is subject to review.
A decision on whether to allow the return of conferences and exhibitions is also on the Executive's agenda on Thursday, as is the requirement of one-metre social distancing indoors.
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