The Hospital Authority today said a COVID-19 patient has passed away, taking the number of COVID-19 patients who died in public hospitals to 194.

The 79-year-old man with chronic diseases was transferred from a quarantine centre to North Lantau Hospital’s accident and emergency department on January 23 due to fever and required oxygen support.

The patient was then transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital’s intensive care unit and subsequently tested positive for the virus.

He was released from an isolation order by the Department of Health on February 21.

His condition continued to deteriorate and he eventually succumbed last night.