Burke Co. Has Fifth Coronavirus Death

Public Health was notified today of a COVID-19 related death another Burke County
resident. The individual had been hospitalized and died this morning, April 15 from complications
associated with the virus. The patient was in her 70’s with underlying medical conditions. To protect the
family’s privacy, no further information about the patient will be released. This is a stark reality that
COVID-19 is a serious virus and a potential risk for those most vulnerable within our community.
“Our hearts are broken for the friends and family of this individual, said Burke County Health Director
Rebecca McLeod. We are pleading for residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves and the
most vulnerable residents at risk like our elderly and those with underlying health conditions, she said.”
For those who test positive, it is extremely important to isolate yourself somewhere in your home away
from other family members to reduce the chances of them getting the infection. Also do not share
bathrooms, utensils, etc along with extensive cleaning and disinfecting of all surfaces and utensils within
the home.

It is so imperative that everyone remembers to abide by the Governor Cooper’s Stay At Home order,
practice social distancing if you have to be out in public, wash your hands often with soap and warm
water for at least twenty seconds, if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand
sanitizer, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands, avoid close contact with
people who are sick, stay home when you are sick, cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw
the tissue in the trash, clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. We can fight this
virus together, but everyone must do their part.

“Again, we express our heartfelt condolences to all those dealing with this tragic loss and express
encouragement to all those battling this infection and the caregivers by their side”, McLeod stated.
For general questions about COVID-19 you can contact the Burke County Public Information line at 828-
764-9388 or visit the COVID-19 webpage at www.burkenc.org/COVID-19. For help in getting community
resources contact the Burke County volunteer coordinator at 828-764-9383 or at
Melissa.estep@burkenc.org