A person has died from the new coronavirus in Washington state, the first death from the virus in the U.S., health officials confirmed Saturday.
The person died in King County, Washington, the state’s Department of Health said. More information was expected at a press conference.
“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,” Gov. Jay Inslee said in a statement Saturday.
“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,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump will speak at a press conference at the White House about the latest developments in the outbreak.