Del Norte community member dies of COVID-19

The Del Norte County Public Health Department has attributed the first death to COVID-19.

The unidentified man was over 65 years of age and was recently hospitalized for COVID-19 symptoms and was confirmed positive. Public health officials said the he experienced multiple underlying health conditions.

Case investigation for this person’s COVID-19 illness suggests that this was a community-acquired infection. No specific place or event was identified as the source of the infection.

Health officials note this case represents a milestone for the community and remind everyone to do their part to protect each other, especially the most vulnerable.

The health department urges the community to be diligent in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in by:

• Wearing a face covering in public

• Washing hands often

• Maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from others not in your household

• Avoiding gatherings

• Limiting non-essential travel

• Avoiding those who are sick

• Staying home if you are sick

For the most recent local COVID-19 information, please visit covid19.dnco.org.