HMGoG regrets to confirm a further two deaths in Gibraltar from COVID-19 in the past 24-hours, bringing the total number of deaths in our community related to COVID-19 to 77.

The first was a man aged 70-75 years old, who had underlying health conditions. He died yesterday of multiple organ failure as a result of COVID-19, sepsis and acute renal failure. This will be recorded in today’s statistics as a death from COVID-19.

The second was a resident of Elderly Residential Services, a woman aged 90-95 years old, who had underlying health conditions. She died today of COVID-19 pneumonia. This will be recorded in today’s statistics as a death from COVID-19.

The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: ‘I am deeply saddened by the news today of the loss of two more members of our community to COVID-19. My deepest sympathies lie with the family and friends of the deceased.

‘One note of good news amongst the tragedy is that yesterday evening we received a further batch of Pfizer vaccines from the UK which has allowed us to commence our second dose strategy this morning. I am truly inspired by the hard work of all the staff at the GHA, ERS and beyond who are giving everything they have to ensure the successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in Gibraltar. On behalf of the whole of Gibraltar, thank you!

‘Once again, as we commence a new phase of partial unlocking tomorrow please follow all of the rules. Assume every one you meet outside of your home has COVID-19 in the way that you approach them. The best ways to protect yourself and others remain the same. Stay at home unless you really have to go out. Wear a mask in public, wash your hands and call 111 as soon as you develop symptoms. Please accept the vaccine when the GHA offer it to you. We cannot give up now’