First Irish death due to Covid-19 virus

A FEMALE patient with an underlying illness who contracted Covid-19 has died in the east of the country.

The woman was being treated in hospital.

It is the first death of a patient in Ireland who had an illness and had also been infected.

It is understood the patient was an older person.

Dr. Tony Holohan, chief medical officer, extended his condolences to the family and friends of the patient.

"I urge the media and the public to respect their privacy at this difficult time.

"We continue our efforts to interrupt the transmission of this virus. It will take all of us, collectively to succeed. Please continue to follow public health advice."

Meanwhile, HSE chief executive Paul Reid has said that Ireland is entering a new phase in relation to the coronavirus.

In a posting on social media, he said he fully supported HSE hospitals who have to make decisions on restricting visitors based on clinical risk, patient and public safety.