GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES FIRST COVID-19 DEATH IN GEORGIA

Governor Kemp and the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) are confirming the first death from COVID-19 in Georgia.

The individual, a 67-year old male, was hospitalized at WellStar Kennestone since testing positive for COVID-19 on March 7. In addition to being infected with coronavirus disease, this individual also had underlying medical conditions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness, including older adults (60+ years of age) and people with serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is important for you to be prepare now in the event of a community outbreak of COVID-19.

But the best prevention measures for all ages against any respiratory virus are:

▪ 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.

If you have traveled out of the country recently and think you might have the COVID-19 virus be sure to call before going to a doctor’s office, emergency room, or urgent care center and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19 log on to dph.georgia.gov or cdc.gov and click on Coronavirus Disease.