The Virginia Department of Health on Monday reported a second coronavirus (COVID-19) death in the state.
And it’s on the Peninsula.
The first death in the state was in James City County — a man in his 70s who acquired COVID-19 through an unknown source. The cause of death was respiratory failure as a result of COVID-19.
It’s unclear whether the second death was from James City County or York County. York County recorded its first coronavirus positive case Monday, according to the updated report from the Virginia Department of Health.
James City County has 10 as of Monday. Statewide: 51 cases.
“On the death, we are only providing the districts,” said Bernard Hill from the Peninsula Health District.
Peninsula Health District officials said the man was in his 70s and was a “hospitalized patient.”
The cause of death was respiratory failure as a result of COVID-19. This new case will be included in the statewide case count Monday on the VDH website, officials said.
He got the virus from an unknown source, health officials said.
The Peninsula Health District covers James City County, York County, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson and Williamsburg.
“It is a sad day in our community as we learn that a local resident has died from COVID-19,” said Peninsula Health Department Acting Director Dr. Steve Julian. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends. We will continue to work toward a day where no one dies from this virus The Hampton/Peninsula Health District is working closely with our community health care partners to assure the best care in response to the pandemic.”
Those who have been in close contact with people who have COVID-19 are at the greatest risk of exposure.
People with suspected or confirmed exposure should reach out to their healthcare provider to be evaluated.
The Peninsula Health District Call Center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. For COVID-19 questions, call 757-594-7069.
The first death in the state was in James City County — a man in his 70s who acquired COVID-19 through an unknown source. The cause of death was respiratory failure as a result of COVID-19.
The Peninsula Health District has activated its incident management team to contain the outbreak and is working with the VDH and the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.
“Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms,” the PHD noted. “However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.”
Symptoms can appear within 14 days of being exposed to a person with the coronavirus and is spread though respiratory droplets.
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