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21-year-old football coach dies from coronavirus becoming one of the youngest to succumb

After being diagnosed with coronavirus symptoms, Francisco Garcia was taken to the hospital and was found to be suffering from a form of leukemia
UPDATED MAR 20, 2020
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

A soccer coach in Spain has died at the age of 21, after contracting coronavirus, making him one of the youngest individuals to die from the virus.

After being diagnosed with severe coronavirus symptoms, Francisco Garcia was taken to the hospital where he was found to be suffering from a form of leukemia as well. Local health officials that he would have recovered if his pre-existing condition did not hinder his capabilities to fight off the virus, The Sun reported. 

Garcia had been working from 2016 with Malaga-based Atletico Portada Alta managing their junior side. He is the fifth victim of the pandemic in the Malaga region and also the youngest to succumb to the virus. Others who have died in the region due to the virus were between 70 and 80 years of age. 

"Francisco was a great guy and a very talented coach. We are all still shocked," Portada Alta president Pepe Bueno said. "The hospital rang me at 7 pm on Sunday to say his condition had stabilized, but then an hour later... The coronavirus came together with a bad illness he had. I can't believe it has happened."

Portada Alta also extended their deepest condolences to the deceased's family. "We wish to express our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Francisco Garcia, who has left us today. What will we do without you, Francis? We will never forget you. Rest in peace, legend," the team said. 

Presently, there are  8,744 reported COVID-19 cases in Spain, with 297 having died from it. 

In order to protect its players as well as fans from exposure to the virus, Spanish soccer leagues, including La Liga, have already been suspended. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who are older and people who have preexisting health conditions such as heart and lung diseases and diabetes run a higher risk of death after contracting coronavirus. 

"If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease," the website stated. 

The actions included stocking up on medical and food supplies, maintaining space between oneself and others, keeping away from others who are sick when out in public, limiting close contact, avoiding crowds as much as possible, washing your hands often, avoiding cruise travel and non-essential air travel and staying home as much as possible.

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