The Pitt County Health Department is reporting the second laboratory confirmed COVID-19 associated death in Pitt County. The individual died last week from complications related to the virus. The patient was in their sixties and had underlying medical conditions. To protect the family’s privacy, no further information about this patient will be released.
“I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of our community member. It goes without saying that this is a very difficult time for all who are affected by this loss of life,” commented Pitt County Health Director, Dr. John L. Silvernail.
“We must all do our part to not only protect ourselves, but to also protect those who are more vulnerable to experiencing life-threatening complications from this virus. I urge everyone to continue to abide by the recommendations set forth by the CDC, the NC DHHS and our Governor to help ensure we do not reverse the impact we have made thus far with controlling the spread of COVID-19 in our community. If you are not an essential employee, and if it is not necessary for you to leave home for groceries, medical care or medications, then please stay home. If you must leave home, practice social / physical distancing, keeping 6 feet apart from others who do not reside within your family unit. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face. If you choose to wear a face mask, follow the CDC guidelines at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html to ensure proper use,” shares Dr. Silvernail.
Dedicated media interviews regarding this death will not be available; however, Dr. Silvernail will receive questions on this during the Pitt County COVID-19 Media Session, scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 11:30am. Please note that information which compromises patient confidentiality will not be shared.
All information regarding Pitt County’s response efforts during the COVID-19 outbreak are available on the Coronavirus Information Page of the Pitt County Website, at: www.PittCountyNC.gov/Coronavirus. Questions may be answered directly by calling the Coronavirus Information Hotline from the Pitt County Health Department at 252-902-2300, or by visiting www.PittCountyNC.gov/COVIDinfo.