Press release from Polk County:
Polk County is reporting its first COVID-19 related death as of Wednesday, May 6, 2020. The person died Tuesday, May 5, 2020 from complications associated with COVID-19. To protect the family’s privacy, the Polk County Health and Human Services Agency is releasing no other information about the patient, other than to say the person was in their seventies and had several “underlying medical conditions.”
“We are saddened that a member of our community has lost their life and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends during this time. COVID-19 is a serious health issue, especially for our elderly population and those with underlying health conditions. We encourage all community members to protect themselves and their neighbors, especially our vulnerable populations, by practicing good prevention habits identified by the CDC such as wearing a cloth face covering in public, hand washing, and maintaining your social distance. Together we will find a path forward while protecting our community.” – Joshua Kennedy, Polk County Health and Human Services Director.
Polk County Health and Human Services Agency urges all residents to take measures
to reduce the spread of coronavirus:
- Wearing a cloth face covering in public
- Maintaining your social distance (6+ Ft)
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
For more information about the coronavirus and to read the latest guidance on keeping yourself and others safe, visit www.polknc.org, www.ncdhhs.org or call the
Polk County Message Line 828-722-5086.In addition the North Carolina Division of Public Health has established a call line at (866) 462-3821 to address general questions about coronavirus from the public. More information can be found on the CDC and NC DHHS websites.
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