Statement from the Department of Health.
A patient who tested positive for Covid-19 has sadly died in a hospital in Northern Ireland.
The patient was elderly, had an underlying medical condition and was being treated in hospital.
Health Minister Robin Swann said: “My deepest condolences go to the friends and family of this patient. This heart-breaking news should bring it home to every one of us that coronavirus is a real and present danger across our community.
“It is essential that we all follow the public health advice on keeping a safe distance, washing our hands and staying at home. We all must ensure we reduce our social interactions and we must not make unnecessary visits or take unnecessary journeys.
“We have received concerning reports of a minority of people who are flouting our social distancing advice. These behaviours are putting the people themselves, their families and their friends and neighbours at risk.
“Coronavirus is a threat across generations and all walks of life. We all need to unite to fight against it.”
There were reports that crowds of young people were on the street in Newry late last night flouting the health advice offered by many bone fide agencies. They are increasing the risk of spreading coronavirus across the wider community.
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