SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. -- A youth soccer coach from Spotsylvania County has died from COVID-19 complications, the Rappahannock Area Health District confirms.
The patient is described as a man in his 50’s who was a youth soccer coach for the Fredericksburg Football Club.
“We are saddened by the news that Spotsylvania has lost another member of our community to complications of COVID-19 and we would like to offer our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this time of intense grief and sorrow,” said Battlefield District Supervisor Chris Yakabouski of the Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors.
The Fredericksburg Football Club has identified the coach as 54-year-old Peter Armatis.
Armatis was a coach and Board of Directors member for the club.
His death is the second COVID-19-related death in Spotsylvania County.
“Any loss to our community is devastating, but it is especially tragic to lose an individual who positively impacted many young lives through his dedication to coaching youth soccer,” said Yakabouski. “Our hearts go out to the entire Fredericksburg Football Club family.”
The football club created scholarship fund in Armatis' name to benefit young soccer players in the area.
"This fund is being created in memory of Peter's passion for the game, his commitment to Fredericksburg FC, and his devotion to his players, according to the GoFundMe page. "Any money raised will be used to help supplement players in need to cover the costs of playing for the club that he cared so much about."
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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.