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The first death associated with the Coronavirus in Ireland has occurred - a patient in a hospital in the East of the country.

The patient died early today in the hospital where she had been in treatment in recent days.

It's understood the elderly female patient, who had an underlying health issue, had presented to a hospital with respiratory problems and was diagnosed some days later when doctors decided to give her the coronavirus test.

HSE Contact for Coronavirus Get the latest information from the HSE on the coronavirus here. The most common symptoms of coronavirus are: a cough - this can be any kind of cough, not just dry

shortness of breath

breathing difficulties

fever (high temperature)

The first Covid-19 cases was recorded in the Republic on February 29th - today - there are a total of 34 confirmed cases. Two of these are reported to have been acquired in the community.

A further update on this tragic death along with further statistics on the latest number of cases is expected from the National Public Health Emergency Teams at its daily briefing later this evening.

Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: "I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of this patient.

"I urge the media and the public to respect their privacy at this difficult time.

"We continue our efforts to interrupt the transmission of this virus. It will take all of us, collectively to succeed. Please continue to follow public health advice."