A MAN in his 50s is the first person in Wiltshire to die from coronavirus.

The news was revealed earlier today by Salisbury Hospital.

It said in a tweet: "Sadly we can confirm a man who had been cared for at Salisbury Hospital & died here on March 11 has tested positive for COVID-19 The patient in his 50s had underlying health conditions.

"His family have been informed about the cause of death. Our thoughts are with the family"

Following the announcement regarding the death of a Wiltshire resident from coronavirus, the leader of Wiltshire Council has moved to reassure residents.

Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of the Council, Wiltshire Council said: “We are so sorry to hear of the death of one of our residents and our heartfelt condolences are with his friends, family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“I want to reassure residents across Wiltshire that we are working closely with our health colleagues to support their efforts to manage Coronavirus.

“The situation regarding Coronavirus is changing rapidly and we must work together to protect ourselves and those around us. It is important to follow and share the latest NHS advice to keep yourselves, your families and our communities safe.

"Those working in health and other frontline services are doing a remarkable job for our communities while this situation is ongoing and I thank them for their efforts."

Last week the Government announced new guidance to reduce the spread of infection which requires anyone who has symptoms of a coronavirus infection – a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature (37.8 degrees centigrade or higher) – to stay at home for seven days from the point that their symptoms first started.

This will help protect others in the community while the individual is infectious. You do not need to call NHS 111 to go into self-isolation. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after seven days, visit NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999.

Tracy Daszkiewicz, Director of Public Health, Wiltshire Council, said: “My thoughts and best wishes are with the family and friends at this sad time. We are working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Wiltshire are protected. Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of infection.

“The best action we can all take to prevent spread of the virus is to follow the NHS advice. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time, and if you cough or sneeze cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or cough into your elbow. If you use a tissue throw it away immediately – catch it, bin it, kill it.

“Clean down surfaces regularly and practice good hand hygiene when you arrive home, get to work, and before you eat and drink.”