The first COVID-19 death has been recorded in the North.

The Northern Irish Department of Health said the patient was elderly and had an underlying medical condition.

Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann said: “I want to express my deep sadness at this death and send my condolences to the patient’s family and friends.”

“It is, of course, essential that we respect their privacy at this sad time.

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

Six new confirmed cases of the virus were reported in the North yesterday bringing the total there to 68.

Meanwhile, there are currently 366 confirmed cases in the Republic – bringing the total on the island of Ireland 434.

Main image shows an Emergency Department Nurse during a demonstration of the Coronavirus testing pod set up in County Antrim, 04-07-2020. Image: Michael Cooper/PA Wire