North Central Health District

North Central Health District identifies first local COVID-19 related death

Posted March 25, 2020 by Michael Hokanson

North Central Health District’s (NCHD) has identified the first death related to COVID-19 in the 13-county health district in Central Georgia.

The individual was a Houston County resident who was hospitalized after a positive COVID-19 test. The individual passed away on March 25.

As of 12 p.m. on March 25, NCHD has confirmed 27 total positive tests of COVID-19 throughout the 13-county district. NCHD cases include:

• Macon-Bibb: 6
• Houston: 5
• Peach: 4
• Monroe: 3
• Baldwin: 2
• Jasper: 2
• Twiggs: 2
• Washington: 2
• Jones: 1

COVID-19 is spread by an infected person’s coughs and sneezes or close contact with an infected individual. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days after exposure and can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The best way to protect against COVID-19 is to practice germ prevention:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water a not available, us an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, then dispose of the tissue. If a tissue is not available, use the inside of your elbow to cover yourself.
• Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces.

Older adults and people with existing medical conditions should take extra precautions to avoid coming into contact with anyone with is sick with any type of illness. These at-risk groups should avoid gatherings and crowded locations. Everyone is encouraged to abide by federal and local guidance and social distancing measures.

For more information about the COVID-19, including cases numbers and guidance, visit NCHD52.org/coronavirus, or use the Georgia COVID-19 Hotline by calling 844-442-2681.