Coronvirus: First death of infected patient confirmed in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has recorded the first death of a patient with coronavirus.

Stormont's Department of Health said the patient, who died in hospital in the greater Belfast area, was elderly and had an underlying health condition.

A total of 68 people have tested positive for Covid-19 in the region.

In the Irish Republic, 366 people have tested positive and two people have died.

Northern Ireland's Health Minister Robin Swann said: "I want to express my deep sadness at this death and send my condolences to the patient's family and friends.

"It is, of course, essential that we respect their privacy at this sad time.

An Emergency Department Nurse during a demonstration outside the emergency Department of Antrim Area Hospital, Co Antrim in Northern Ireland (PA)

"I would once again appeal to everyone to play their part in fighting the spread of this virus."

Stormont's leaders First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill also expressed sympathy.

Mrs Foster said: "This is a sad day for Northern Ireland. Our thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with the family and friends of the patient who has died.

"And we are immeasurably grateful to our health service staff who cared for this person.

"This is not unexpected news. We knew that this pandemic would inevitably cost precious lives. We cannot stop it.

First Minster Arlene Foster expressed her sympathies (PA)

"But it is incumbent on all of us to do whatever we can to slow its spread and shield those most vulnerable from the effects of this virus."

Ms O'Neill said: "At the heart of this is a person who has lost their life to Covid-19. While we knew this day would come, it doesn't make it any less devastating for the loved ones of that individual. I offer them my heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time.

"I also pay tribute to our amazing health workers who are doing everything they can to provide the best possible care for people in the most difficult circumstances.

"This sad news brings home to us all why it is so important to take every step possible to protect ourselves and the most vulnerable.

"The social distancing measures we are urging everyone to take are not easy, but they are necessary. We all have a part to play in keeping people safe and ultimately saving lives."

More to follow.