THE first death of a coronavirus COVID-19 positive patient in a Birmingham hospital has sadly been confirmed today (Saturday 14th March).
The news comes as NHS England announce a further 10 deaths across the country, bringing the total to 21 in the UK.Â
Local hospitals have also taken measures to reduce visitor contact.
A Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust spokesperson confirmed that a City Hospital patient – a man in his 80s – passed away on Thursday (12th March).
The spokesperson said: “Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at City Hospital, and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died.
“The patient, who died on 12th March, was in his mid-80s and had underlying health conditions.
“His family have been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time.”
Hospitals reduce visitor contact
Local hospitals have announced measures to reduce visitor contact on their wards, in an attempt to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection.
Hospitals across the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust – including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham – are now allowing just ONE visitor per patient. All visitors must be over 16 and should report to the nurses’ station on arrival.
Northfield’s Royal Orthopaedic Hospital are reducing visiting times to between 6pm and 8pm and children are only to be admitted under special circumstances.
For up to date advise on coronavirus, visit the NHS coronavirus webpage.
Please check on your vulnerable neighbours and lend a hand where needed!
