The US has reported its first death from Covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
The death of the man, in Washington state, follows confirmation by US health authorities of the first cases of Covid-19 with no connection to China, where the new coronavirus first emerged, all on the US west coast.
“It is a sad day in our state as we learn that a Washingtonian has died from COVID-19. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. We will continue to work toward a day where no one dies from this virus,” Washington state’s governor Jay Inslee said.
“In partnership with the Washington State Department of Health, the Washington State Department of Emergency Management and local and community health partners, we are strengthening our preparedness and response efforts. I am committed to keeping Washingtonians healthy, safe and informed.”
