Coronavirus: first Covid-19 death confirmed in Rotherham

In a joint statement, Public Health England (PHE) and Rotherham Council confirmed a person at Ackroyd House Care Home has died after testing positive for Covid-19

It is not known if it was a man or woman. The person’s age is also not known.

The home is currently closed to all visitors. Staff have also been given health advice about the symptoms of coronavirus, with those who were in close contact with the victim being closely monitored for symptoms, PHE said.

"Any residents who develop symptoms will be referred for a clincial assessment,” a spokesperson said.

Dr Nicolas Aigbogun, from PHE Yorkshire and the Humber, said: "Our deepest sympathies are with the family concerned.

"PHE is working closely with the care home to provide health advice to stop the virus spreading. Everyone should be following social distancing advice to reduce their social interaction with people.”

Teresa Roche, director of Public Health at Rotherham Council, added: "I would also like to send my condolences to the family concerned at this difficult time.

"Rotherham is well prepared to deal with coronavirus. Our priority is to safeguard local communities which involves taking preventative measures to help reduce the risk of further cases.

"People should follow social distancing advice, available at www.gov.uk and pay particular attention to stay at home advice."

In nearby Sheffield, where as of Monday the number of confirmed coronavirus cases was the highest in Yorkshire, a fourth person has now died.