March 28, 2020
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov
Crater Health District Health Departments Reports its First COVID-19 Death
(Petersburg, Va.) – The Crater Health District today announced the death of a resident from complications associated with COVID-19. To protect patient confidentiality, no further information about the patient will be provided.
“We are so sorry to hear of the loss of a Crater Health District resident. Our sincere condolences go out to their family and friends,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “It is especially important to remember elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of complications from COVID-19, including death. These at-risk individuals are strongly advised to take steps to minimize contact with others who are ill, practice social distancing, and stay at home as much as possible.”
We all can take steps to protect our health and the health of our loved ones.
- Stay home if possible.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Practice social distancing by staying six feet or more away from others.
- Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying condition or if you are sick.
The Crater Health District has activated a coronavirus call center, which is staffed Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. to address questions from residents. Community members may call 804-862-8989. The Virginia Department of Health has also activated a public information line, 877-ASK-VDH3, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and information is being shared as it becomes available on the following websites: www.cdc.gov/covid19 or www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/.
Note: This fatality was not included in the statewide count earlier today. The count is updated daily with numbers reported by 5 p.m. the evening before.