The coronavirus (COVID-19) has claimed its first life in Jamaica.

Pemanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dunstan Bryan made the announcement at a press conference Thursday evening.

“The patient tested positive today and died today,” Bryan said.

The deceased, a 79-year-old man, died at the Mandeville Regional Hospital.

It was also announced that the number of COVID-19 infections in Jamaica is now 15, having increased by two overnight.

The man had diabetes and hypertension and had resided in the United States. He tested positive today.

He had presented at the Lionel Town Hospital with symptoms on March 16.