1st Coronavirus Death Reported In Washtenaw County

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YPSILANTI, Mich. (WWJ) -- The Washtenaw County Health Department is reporting the first death in the county attributed to COVID-19, bringing the statewide death toll to nine amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Officials say an elderly man with underlying health conditions was hospitalized Saturday and died Sunday at Michigan Medicine. His age was not immediately disclosed.

The news comes the same day officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced another spike in the total number of cases. With more than 200 new cases reported Sunday, the total has surged past 1,000.

"Our condolences go out to the family who have lost their loved one," Washtenaw County Health Officer Jimena Loveluck, MSW, said in a press release. "While we know there are no words that can lessen this family’s grief and our community’s loss and fears, his death is an urgent reminder to all of us. We must act now and act together to protect everyone’s health to the greatest degree possible."

Officials say there have been five deaths in Wayne County -- four of which were in the city of Detroit -- and one each in Washtenaw, Oakland, Macomb and Kent Counties.

Washtenaw County health officials say strong community mitigation and prevention measures are already in place. They are recommending that everyone:

  • Stay at home - Do not leave home except for essential tasks such as getting groceries or seeking medical care.
  • If you are out, stay at least 6 feet away from others and avoid any gatherings.
  • Wash your hands often and well, especially after being away from home
  • Do not touch your face or mouth, especially when out
  • Check on others - Call your loved ones and neighbors who are most at risk and see how they are doing. If they require an essential errand, see how you can help.

"We know this is a difficult time," Loveluck said. "It is also a critical time for us to work together and to protect each other and support our health care workers and other essential workers. Together we can do this. We can slow the spread of illness and maintain care and resources for everyone."

Washtenaw County officials are reporting more than 30 total cases in the county.

>>> Coronavirus In Michigan: What You Need To Know On Sunday, March 22

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