RICHMOND, Va. -- A woman in her 80s has died from COVID-19, the Chickahominy Health District confirmed.
The resident's death is the first COVID-19 death in the Chickahominy Health District, which is made up of Hanover, Goochland, New Kent, and Charles City counties.
Health officials did not disclose her precise location, nor if she suffered from a pre-existing condition that contributed to her death.
“Our hearts and our prayers go out to her family and friends,” said Chickahominy Health District Director, Dr. Thomas Franck. “This death, along with the increasing number of coronavirus cases being discovered in the community, is a reminder that we all share a responsibility in slowing the spread of this virus. It is crucial that we all follow special precautions to protect our loved ones as well as our community - this is especially important for protecting those who are at a higher risk, such as older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.”
This fatality has not yet been included in the statewide count which is updated daily with numbers recorded by 5 p.m. the evening before.
For general questions about COVID-19, community members may call the health district’s hotline: 804- 365-3340, which is staffed M-F from 8am – 4:30pm (starting April 6, hotline hours will be extended to M-F from 8am-6pm).
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COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. 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.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- 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.Avoid non-essential travel.