A "significant increase" in coronavirus infections have been recorded in the community since December, new figures show.
The Department of Health said the pandemic "continues to cast a long shadow over our health service and wider society in Northern Ireland."
In a statement, the DoH added that both coronavirus and the flu are among factors contributing to the "extreme and ongoing pressures" on health and social care.
Read more: NI pharmacies facing shortage of cough and cold medicines
The latest COVID-19 Infection Survey results, published today, shows that as of January 5, there were 374 in-patients with confirmed coronavirus in hospitals here.
That compares to 226 on December 5, with the 374 total representing 11% of occupied beds in Northern Ireland hospitals.
The DoH added: "For a significant number of these patients, COVID-19 will not be the principal reason for their ill-health and hospitalisation. However, infection with the virus can impact on patient condition and recovery, as well as the management of their care.
"The potential for hospital acquired infection is heightened when COVID-19 rates increase in the community. This is another reason why timely discharge from hospital is important for patients who are medically fit to leave."
The Department of Health is encouraging anyone who is eligible for coronavirus and flu vaccination to get their jabs if they have not yet done so.
"It is also vital to keep following public health advice on preventing the spread of all respiratory infections," a spokesperson continued.
"Anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection and a high temperature should stay at home and should avoid contact with other people and must not visit others in health and social care settings."
It comes as hospitals around Northern Ireland have reported extreme pressures presenting in their emergency departments, leading to social media appeals for off-duty staff to work, and patients to be discharged.
As well as this, a shortage of cold and flu medication has also been reported here amid high levels of winter illness.
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