Dental nurse from Swansea dies after being diagnosed with coronavirus

A dental nurse has died after being treated for coronavirus in Swansea.

The local health board confirmed Linnette Cruz, aged 51, who was a senior head nurse at a practice in Sketty, had been admitted to hospital last month after suffering with Covid-19 symptoms.

Ms Cruz passed away on 14 April.

She is survived by her husband, Jeonardy, a son, Jeonard, a sister, Rose, and her parents.

The health board said Mrs Cruz trained in the Philippines and came to Swansea "a number of years ago."

The owner of the practice she worked at paid tribute to her saying she "brought love, light and joy to everyone around her".

"She will be sadly missed by all", Nik Patel said.

Karl Bishop, dental director for Swansea Bay University Health Board said, “Linnette’s death is deeply upsetting to her family, friends and colleagues and all our thoughts are with them. She was a highly committed and caring dental nurse, respected by her colleagues, patients and the communities in which she worked.

“Any death to COVID-19 is a very sad event, and where it affects a healthcare professional it is particularly upsetting.

“The health board will provide all necessary support to the practice and staff during this difficult time.”