Louisiana health officials Saturday announced the first death of a COVID-19 coronavirus patient.
The patient was a 58-year-old New Orleans resident with underlying health conditions. The patient was being treated at Touro Infirmary.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the first Louisiana death related to COVID-19 today. I have spoken with Mayor LaToya Cantrell, and we send our prayers and condolences to the family of the deceased," said Gov. John Bel Edwards.
"In addition, we now have 10 new presumptive positive cases bringing our total to 77," the governor said. "Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant against the spread of this illness by taking care of ourselves and each other, avoiding going into public areas if you are sick, practicing social distancing and washing your hands frequently with soap and water. This underscores the fact that those with underlying health issues are most at risk from the coronavirus. Those with compromised immune systems and are older should be taking extra precautions to avoid becoming affected with the coronavirus."
"We were deeply saddened, but sadly not surprised, to get confirmation today of the first fatality attributed to COVID-19 in the state of Louisiana," said New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell. "As we know, particular sectors of our community are acutely at risk for serious symptoms that may ultimately prove fatal."
Everyone is warned to take the necessary precautions to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and stay safe and healthy.
These precautions include:
- Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently
- Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm
- Avoiding touching your face
- Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Avoiding close contact with others
- And staying home if you are sick
Click here for the state health department's interactive map on COVID-19 coronavirus.
