Davidson County reports first death due to coronavirus

DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. — The Davidson County Health Department released information saying a Davidson County resident has died due to the coronavirus, Monday afternoon.

The health department said they were informed Monday the announcement made the first Davidson County resident death due to the virus.

The department said the person died on Monday at WFBH Lexington Medical Center, from complications associated with the coronavirus.

The organization said the individual had underlying medical conditions and was also considered to be high-risk based on their age.

“To respect the privacy of the family, no further information about the individual will be released,” the Davidson County Health Department said in a press release.

The department said the individual was in their late 80s.

“Losing a loved one is never easy, but especially challenging during this pandemic. Our deepest condolences go out to family, loved ones and friends of the patient now and in the upcoming days and weeks,” said Davidson County Health Director Lillian Koontz. “While we’ve seen reports in other areas of COVID-19 related deaths, a Davidson County resident passing away is a stark reminder of just how serious this virus is. 

Koontz said everyone should be taking the necessary steps to protect ourselves, loved ones, and even strangers by staying at home unless essential to leave.

RELATED: Monday real-time coronavirus updates: Davidson County reports first death due to coronavirus

RELATED: Answers to some of the most common questions about federal coronavirus relief

RELATED: 'Holding China accountable': Rep. Mark Walker of Greensboro working on bill to make China pay for multi-trillion dollar coronavirus stimulus package

RELATED: Holden Road K&W Cafeteria in Greensboro offers free meals to kids

FACTS NOT FEAR

Remember facts, not fear when talking about the coronavirus. You should take the same measures recommended by health leaders to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses. That means washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, and covering coughs and sneezes.

RELATED: Facts Not Fear | What you need to know about the COVID-19 outbreak

WHERE YOU GET INFORMATION ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS IS IMPORTANT 

It is important to make sure the information you are getting about the coronavirus is coming directly from reliable sources like the CDC and NCDHHS. Be careful not to spread misinformation about coronavirus on social media. 

For more information visit the CDC OR NCDHHS

NC CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE 

The state also has a special hotline set up where you can call 866-462-3821 for more information on the coronavirus. You can also submit questions online at ncpoisoncontrol.org or select chat to talk with someone about the virus.

You can also text keyword VIRUS to WFMY News 2 at 336-379-5775 to find out more information.