Children aged nine and younger have tested positive for Coronavirus in Northern Ireland, a report has confirmed.
According to the Public Health Agency, 20 children, per 100,000 of population aged between 0-9 have confirmed as testing positive for the virus.
11 were male and 9 were female according to the figures. 79 young people, per 100,000 aged 10-19 also returned a positive result.
The statistics were released today from PHA as they published their first monthly report examining key trends and characteristics of COVID-19.
They say the aim of the document is to help build a longer-term understanding of the virus and its impact.
It also reveals that in care homes there are 137 suspected/confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks reported. 28.4% of all Northern Ireland care homes have reported an outbreak.
Belfast has the highest proportion of outbreaks reported (35.2%).
The report shows that up to week 20 (17 May 2020), for example, there were 4,469 laboratory-confirmed cases, with 61% of total cases being female. 28% of total cases reside in Belfast (Local Government District).
In addition, 71 samples from the flu spotter programme were tested retrospectively (swabbed 27 December 2019 - 12 March 2020). None were positive for the virus: 96% were negative and the other 4% did not have sufficient sample remaining to be tested. This would suggest that the virus was not circulating undetected in Northern Ireland before the first case was confirmed.
Health Minister Robin Swann MLA said: “Throughout this pandemic there has been an understandable focus on statistics and percentages, and I have always been determined to ensure that there is the maximum possible transparency. The data helps us to track and understand the virus and its impact both on the community and the health and social care system.
“The statistics also tell a human story of how the virus has left its tragic mark on families and communities who have lost loved ones. The valuable and detailed analysis contained within the monthly bulletin will help us to develop our plans for the vital recovery period as we start to re-engage our health and social care services.”
