First COVID-19 related death in Pasquotank County reported

Published 9:14 am Tuesday, April 21, 2020

: This illustration, created at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveals ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses. Note the spikes that adorn the outer surface of the virus, which impart the look of a corona surrounding the virion, when viewed electron microscopically. A novel coronavirus, named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China in 2019. The illness caused by this virus has been named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Albemarle Regional Health Services reported in a Monday, April 20 press release it had received notification confirming the first death associated with COVID-19 in a Pasquotank County resident. The individual, who was over the age of 65, succumbed to complications associated with the virus. ARHS stated that to protect the family’s privacy, no further information about this patient will be released.

“It is with deep regret that we make this announcement and we extend our deepest condolences to the individual’s family and friends,” states R. Battle Betts Jr., MPA, ARHS health irector. “It is still important for our community to practice prevention measures needed to slow the spread of COVID-19, especially handwashing, sanitation and social distancing.”

ARHS stated it is continuing to ask community members to be mindful in practicing preventive and safety measures, including the following precautions:

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– Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

– Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

– Stay home when sick.

– Cover coughs and/or sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

– Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing noses, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

– Practice social distancing; stay at least six feet away from others, avoid unnecessary travel, avoid handshakes, hugs and other close contact.

– Wear a cloth face covering in public when social distancing measures are hard to maintain.

To slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the number of people infected, ARHS advises that communities should be following the guidance set by local, state, and federal officials to reduce frequency of contact and increase physical distance between persons, thereby reducing the risks of person-to-person transmission.

For more information about COVID-19, visit:

Albemarle Regional Health Services – http://www.arhs-nc.org/ or call 252-338-WELL

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services – https://www.ncdhhs.gov/

Center for Disease Control – https://www.cdc.gov/

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