Death toll jumps to 21 as those testing positive continues to rise

THE 10 people who died of Covid-19 yesterday – taking the death toll to 21 – were all over the age of 60, had underlying health conditions or were in at-risk groups, NHS England confirmed last night.

The victims had been cared for by nine trusts, including Buckinghamshire, Sandwell And West Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Leicester, Barts, London, north Middlesex and Chester.

They were a man in his late 70s at Wycombe Hospital, a man in his 80s at City Hospital, Birmingham, a man in his 80s at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, a man in his 80s at the Leicester Royal Infirmary and a man in his 90s with significant existing health problems, who died at St George’s University Hospital, south London.

The other five deceased were a man in his 80s at North Middlesex University Hospital, London, a man in his 60s at Northwick Park Hospital, London, a man in his 80s at Countess of Chester Hospital and two more people died at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London.their ages and sexes had not been released last night.

Announcing the death toll,

Professor Chris Whitty said: “I am sorry to confirm 10 further patients who have tested positive for Covid-19 in England have died. All 10 individuals were in the at-risk groups.

“I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends who have received this difficult news.

“I ask that their privacy is respected at this time.”

Prof Whitty went on to try to reassure the public that everything possible is being done to tackle the health crisis. He said: “I understand this increase in the number of deaths linked to Covid-19 will be a cause for concern for many.

“The public should know that every measure we are taking is seeking to save lives and protect the most vulnerable.”

He added: “Every single one of us has a role to play in achieving this.

“If you have a new, continuous cough or a high temperature, please stay at home for seven days.

“I also encourage everyone to be washing their hands for 20 seconds regularly.”

‘This increase will be a cause for concern for many’