Two patients being treated with coronavirus at an Essex hospital have died.
The patients were being treated at Colchester hospital and were both in their 80s with underlying health conditions.
A spokesperson for East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) said: “We can confirm that sadly, two patients in their 80s who had underlying health conditions have passed away at ESNEFT. They had tested positive for COVID-19.”
“Our thoughts and condolences remain with the patient’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”
Over 8,000 people have now tested positive for coronavirus in the UK, with the total number of deaths rising to 422 on Tuesday, a rise of 87 in one day.
The government is coming under growing pressure to ensure tests and protective equipment is available for NHS staff. This is after 405,000 people answered an NHS call for 250,000 volunteers to help it fight the disease.
The government confirmed that 3.5m coronavirus home test kits will be available “within days” from Amazon and Boots.
The finger-prick test will be able to determine whether someone has already had Covid-19.
Earlier this morning, it was also announced that Prince Charles has tested positive for the virus.
The Prince of Wales, who is 71, was said to have ‘mild symptoms’ and otherwise ‘remains in good health’, a spokesperson for Clarence House said.
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