Vatican reports its first coronavirus case

The Vatican on Friday reported its first coronavirus case, saying it had suspended outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive for COVID-19.

The clinic inside the tiny city-state -- which has some 1,000 residents -- will be deep cleaned, while the emergency room will remain open, spokesman Matteo Bruni told AFP.

The patient tested positive on Thursday.

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The clinic is used by priests, residents and employees -- including those now retired -- as well as their relatives.

Bruni said the Vatican was getting in touch with all those who had passed through the clinic, as per protocol.