FREDERICKSBURG,, Va. -- Virginia health officials said a second person has died from a COVID-19-related illness in the Rappahannock Area Health District.
Officials said Sunday night that the man was in his 50s, but that no additional information would be provided.
“We are truly saddened to learn of the death of another member of our community, and we extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends,” Rappahannock Area Health District Acting Director Dr. Donald Stern said. “It is important that we all follow precautions to prevent the spread of this illness. We remind everyone that we are taking these measures not just to keep ourselves healthy, but to prevent the spread of the virus across the community.”
The district's first death, a man in his 60s, was reported Wednesday, April 1.
The Rappahannock Area Health District serves the City of Fredericksburg and Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania and Stafford counties.
At last check Sunday, 81 COVID-19 cases were reported in the district.
Virginia's total number of COVID-19 cases is 2,637, according to Virginia Department of Health data.
As of Sunday's update, 431 people remain hospitalized and 51 people have died as a result of COVID-19-related illnesses, according to VDH.
Officials are investigating several "distinct clusters" where there is "local transmission" of the virus.
Those clusters include 426 cases in Fairfax County, 194 in Henrico County, 181 in Arlington County, 175 in Prince William County, 170 in Virginia Beach, 167 in Loudon County, 117 in James City County, 108 in Chesterfield County and 99 in Richmond.
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.