Italy reports 475 coronavirus deaths, the highest single-day death toll for any country since the outbreak began

Italy on Tuesday reported 475 deaths from the coronavirus.

That's the highest death toll reported in one day by any country since the coronavirus first originated in Wuhan, China, late last year.

Even at the peak of its outbreak, China's highest single-day death toll was 150, on Feb 23. Iran and Spain, both hit badly, have yet to record more than 200 in a day.

The coronavirus has infected 35,713 people and killed a total of 2,978 people in Italy. It is the worst-hit nation outside Asia, second only to China.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte put the entire country of 60 million people on lockdown on March 9. Only pharmacies and grocery stores remain open.

The European nation is home to an aging population, which is particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.

The coronavirus has brought the Italian healthcare system to the brink of collapse in a matter of weeks, with overloaded hospitals, a shortage of beds, and a lack of medical resources.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.