PORTSMOUTH, Va. - The Portsmouth Health Department announced Thursday that a resident has died from the coronavirus.
This is the first coronavirus-related death from a resident in the district.
The resident was a woman in her 60s who had underlying health conditions. To protect patient confidentiality, the health department will not provide any further information about the patient.
"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 Friday on the Virginia Department of Health website.
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.
