854 dead: Worst single day for coronavirus fatalities in UK

The UK has suffered its worst single-day for coronavirus related deaths with 854 people losing their lives to the disease.

The death toll from coronavirus stands at least 6,224 after NHS England reported a further 758 deaths in English hospitals. They were in patients aged between 23 and 102, and 29 of them had no known underlying health condition.

Scotland reported a further 74 deaths and Wales 19, with three people dying in Northern Ireland. The previous highest death toll was 708, which was reported on April 4.

According to data released on Saturday by the Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre, 50 percent of patients admitted to intensive care units suffering from Covid-19 die of the disease. Of those aged 50-59, which includes Mr. Johnson, the fatality rate falls to 46 percent.

About Mr. Boris Johnson 

• Friday, March 27 Boris Johnson reveals he has tested positive for coronavirus. “I’ve developed mild symptoms . . . that’s to say temperature and a persistent cough,” he says in a video on Twitter.
• Friday, April 3 The prime minister says he is extending his period of self-isolation beyond seven days as he still has a high temperature.
• Sunday night Taken to hospital for tests as a “precaution” after days of “persistent symptoms”. Officials say it is not an emergency admission.
• Yesterday morning A message on the prime minister’s personal Twitter account says: “I’m in good spirits and keeping in touch with my team, as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.”
• Yesterday afternoon Speaking at the government’s daily briefing Dominic Raab, who is the prime minister’s designated successor if he becomes incapacitated, says of Mr. Johnson: “He’s in charge, but he’ll continue to take doctors’ advice.”
• Yesterday evening Admitted to intensive care at St Thomas’. “The condition of the prime minister has worsened,” says a statement from No 10. Mr. Raab will deputise.

TS/MS