April 2, 2020
Media Contact: Larry Hill, Phone: 757-683-9175
Portsmouth Health Department Reports First COVID-19 Death
The Portsmouth Health Department announced the first death of a Portsmouth resident from coronavirus 19 (COVID-19). The resident was a female in her 60’s with underlying health conditions. To protect patient confidentiality, no further information about the patient will be provided.
“The Portsmouth Health Department is saddened to announce their first COVID-19 related death. We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends. The Health Department is working diligently during this pandemic and we urge our community to continue to follow guidance from our Governor and Department of Health to keep our citizens as safe as possible,” said Portsmouth Health Director Dr. Lauren James.
This new case will be included in the death statewide case count tomorrow on the VDH website at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
The Regional Call Center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For COVID-19 questions, call 757-683-2745.
To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:
- Elderly and those at-risk should stay at home as much as possible; if not possible, avoid large gatherings.
- Practice social distancing of 6 feet or more.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Limit travel as much as possible.
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/.