Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said the Department of Health must ensure resources are available for extra staff and infection control measures after an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Ulster Hospital.

Media reports state five patients and six staff from a medical ward at the hospital are affected, with further test results to come.

“My thoughts are with all of those affected by this outbreak. Clearly everyone is doing their utmost to avoid such situations, but the nature of the virus means it is difficult to detect before it spreads,” said Ms Bradshaw.

“The staff in some locations are working under extraordinary pressure given there were already high numbers of vacancies in some areas and these have been exacerbated by the need for others to self-isolate.

“I would urge the Department to redouble its efforts to ensure the resources are there to cover vacancies and implement infection control measures.”