The Three Rivers Health District reported Wednesday afternoon the death of a Three Rivers resident. The woman in her 40s was hospitalized and confirmed positive for COVID-19 infection. She is the first COVID-19 related death in the health district.
“We are so sorry to hear this news of the loss of a member of our community and our condolences go out to the family and friends of the patient,” said Three Rivers Health District Director Dr. Richard Williams. “We are investigating how she may have obtained the virus in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”
The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. In a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can cause complications, including death, particularly among those who are older or who have chronic medical conditions. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person. COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Three Rivers Health District has activated a public information line, 804-313-1638, for questions from residents about the novel coronavirus situation.
To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Practice social distancing 6 feet or more.
- Avoid non-essential travel.
- Elderly and those at-risk should stay at home as much as possible; if not possible, avoid large gatherings
Information is being shared as it becomes available on the following websites: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus or www.vdh.virgina.gov/coronavirus/. Please consult www.vdh.virgina.gov/coronavirus for the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Virginia. Note: This case is not included in the statewide count of cases April 6, 2020 at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.