LONDON, March 6 (CNA) - A second patient in the United Kingdom who tested positive for coronavirus has died, England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty confirmed on Friday (Mar 6).

The patient was being treated at Milton Keynes University Hospital and had underlying health conditions, Whitty said in a statement.

Milton Keynes University Hospital said the man had underlying health conditions and tested positive for the novel coronavirus shortly before his death on Thursday.

"His family has been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at what is undoubtedly a difficult and distressing time," it said in a statement.

"The hospital continues to work with Public Health England to isolate any patients or staff who had contact with the patient."

The hospital added: "We will not be commenting further and ask that the family’s privacy is respected."

A total of 163 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the United Kingdom, rising from 115, medical authorities said on Friday.