HEALTH chiefs have confirmed the first death from Coronavirus in Northern Ireland.

The patient was elderly, had an underlying medical condition and was being treated in a hospital in the greater Belfast area.

Health Minister Robin Swann expressed his deep sadness and sent his condolences to the patient’s family and friends.

“I would once again appeal to everyone to play their part in fighting the spread of this virus,” he added.

The patient was among the 68 people who have tested positive for Covid-19 in Northern Ireland.

There are currently 366 confirmed cases in the Republic of Ireland after 74 new cases were announced on Wednesday, with two deaths being recorded.