FARMVILLE, Va. – A man in his 70s who lived in the Virginia Department of Health’s Piedmont Health District has died from COVID-19, bringing the state's death toll to 26.
Officials have not released any additional details about the patient at this time.
“Sadly, we have experienced our first local COVID-19 related fatality. We send our sincere condolences to this person’s family,” said H. Robert Nash, MD, Director Piedmont Health District, Virginia Department of Health.
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.
“Unfortunately, those over 65 and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications from COVID-19,” said Dr. Nash. “Everyone, especially at-risk individuals, are strongly advised to take steps to minimize contact with others who are ill, practice social distancing and stay home whenever possible.
The Piedmont Health District says the death has not been added to the VDH dashboard, which is updated daily with cases recorded by 5 p.m. the evening before.
Stay with CBS 6 for the latest on this developing story.
COVID-19 Safety Precautions
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 non-essential travel.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public.
- Avoid crowds of more than ten people.