The deaths of 22 people who tested positive for Covid-19 at Croydon University Hospital and Epsom and St Helier Hospitals have been announced.

It was reported today (April 2) that 11 people died at Croydon between March 22 to 30.

A further 11 people who tested positive for the virus died at Epsom and St Helier hospitals in the same time frame – the numbers of deaths are not broken down by individual hospitals.

As of Thursday, April 2, a total of 70 people who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) have died at Croydon and 58 at Epsom and St Helier Hospitals.

To cope with a surge in cases, both hospital trusts have increased the capacity of critical care and postponed many non-urgent appointments to free-up staff and resources.

This morning, Croydon University Hospital said it is currently treating 150 people with coronavirus.

And while there have been many deaths, 140 people have successfully recovered after being treated at the hospital.

Chief nurse at the hospital, Elaine Clancy who is leading the hospital’s response to Covid-19 urged people to follow guidance to slow the spread of the virus.

She said: “We need everyone to play their part in the fight against coronavirus by staying at home, following the guidance on social distancing and washing their hands.”