First Doncaster coronavirus death announced

Bosses at Doncaster Royal Infirmary have this evening said the hospital has seen its first positive Covid-19 patient death today.

Dr Tim Noble, medical director at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, which runs the hospital, said: "I am saddened to confirm that a patient who was being cared for at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, and who had tested positive for Covid-19, has passed away.

“The patient, who was in their 50s, had underlying health conditions.

"We share our deepest condolences and sympathies with the patient’s loved ones.”

The patient’s identity has not been revealed, and the trust says it will not be commenting further on the death.

The hospital revealed its first case of coronavirus on Friday evening, and at that point said those who had been in contact with the patient had been given health information about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become symptomatic, as well as advice regarding self-isolation.

Dr Noble at that stage that the trust had put the necessary precautions and safeguards in place and its clinicians were working to national guidance to ensure they were compliant with infection prevention and control measures to minimise any associated risks.

He added: “The best advice for our local residents is to wash your hands regularly with soap and water, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and use, and discard, tissues if you cough or sneeze. These are the best steps that we can all take to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.”