Morgan County reports first COVID-19 death

This undated electron microscope image made available by the U.S. National Institutes of Health in February 2020 shows the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus causes COVID-19. The sample was isolated from a patient in the U.S. (NIAID-RML via AP)
This undated electron microscope image made available by the U.S. National Institutes of Health in February 2020 shows the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus causes COVID-19. The sample was isolated from a patient in the U.S. (NIAID-RML via AP)

Morgan County reported its first COVID-19 related death Sunday.

The county's Health Center said it will not identify the victim to protect the privacy of the family.

"It is with deep sorrow the Morgan County Health Center today reports the first death of a Morgan County resident due to COVID-19," the center said on the county's Facebook page.

The county reports having a total of 69 cases, with 18 active. Fifty patients have recovered, with eight requiring hospitalization.

The county's health center urged residents to take preventive actions to prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses. These actions include:

- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.

- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

- Stay home if you are sick.

- Wear a cloth face covering in public.

Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. If you think, you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice before showing up.

For more information, visit the DHSS website at www.health.mo.gov/coronavirus or the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. A statewide COVID-19 hotline also operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 877-435-8411.