Coronavirus update - Four more Greater Manchester deaths announced

Date published: 16 March 2020


Four more people have died from coronavirus in Greater Manchester.

The number of confirmed fatalities across the UK has now increased to 35, after Health trusts issued individual statements about 14 new deaths yesterday (Sunday).

A man in his 80s died in Tameside, and a man in his 80s and a woman in her 70s died at North Manchester General Hospital's specialist infection centre.

Elsewhere, a 91-year-old man died of coronavirus at Wythenshawe Hospital.

It has been reported that a total of five people have now died with the virus in Greater Manchester.

A Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust spokesman said: "Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at our hospital, and had tested positive for Covid-19, has died.

"The patient was in his 80s and had underlying health conditions.

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

Meanwhile, the government is to hold daily televised press conferences to update the public on the fight against coronavirus, Downing Street has announced.

From today (Monday), Prime Minister Boris Johnson or a senior minister will address the media to ensure people are informed about how to protect themselves.

The daily updates announcement comes as Transport Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the over-70s will soon be asked to stay at home for an extended period to protect themselves.

Mr Shapps insisted that those asked to stay home would still be able to go for a walk outside.

"It's about being sensible but not mixing in crowds," he said.

The impact of the coronavirus on the UK travel industry also became clearer today.

Easyjet is the latest leading airline to announce sweeping flight cancellations and warned of the grounding of the majority of its planes amid widespread travel restrictions throughout Europe.

People are still being advised to wash their hands whenever they can for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap, and avoid touching your face.

Although hand sanitisers are a good way of keeping yourself safe while out and about, an Oldham doctor warned that it isn't as effective as properly washing your hands

For the latest health advice, visit the NHS website here


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