Coronavirus: Hampshire man dies after testing positive for Covid-19

The 69-year-old was a patient at University Hospital Southampton and had underlying health conditions.

A spokesperson for UHS said: ‘Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at University Hospital Southampton and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died. The patient was aged 69 and had underlying health conditions.

‘His family has been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time.’

It comes after a coronavirus case was confirmed in Portsmouth on Saturday. The number of cases in Hampshire stands at 55, as of 9am yesterday.

There are 1,543 confirmed cases across the UK as of 9am on Monday.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS