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Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS) has received notification from one of its hospital partners confirming the second death associated with COVID-19 in the ARHS region. This is the first death related to COVID-19 in Hertford County. The individual was older than 65 and succumbed to complications associated with the virus. To protect the family’s privacy, ARHS stated that no further information about this patient will be released.

“It is with deep regret that we make this announcement and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the individual,” stated R. Battle Betts Jr. MPA, ARHS health director in a Saturday afternoon press release. “We recognize that this is a difficult time; we are facing a historic public health challenge, but let us remain vigilant in the daily steps to keep us all safe, especially handwashing, sanitation and social distancing.”

ARHS has also received notification of the second lab confirmed case of COVID-19 in Perquimans County. The individual is reported to be in isolation. ARHS is following North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services guidelines on contact tracing of all individuals who may have had close contact with the case.

As of 11 a.m. on April 4, 2020 Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS) is reporting 25 lab confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 across the region. Case counts include:

Pasquotank – 8, Perquimans – 2, Camden – 0, Chowan – 1, Currituck – 2, Bertie – 7, Gates – 1, Hertford – 4.

According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, as of 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 5, there are 2,585 cases of COVID-19 in the state with 31 deaths in 89 counties. Completed tests number 40,045 and 261 individuals are reported to be hospitalized.

ARHS is continuing to ask community members to be mindful in practicing preventive and safety measures that will help prevent the spread of the virus. These precautions include:

– Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

– Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth.

– Staying home when sick.

– Covering coughs and/or sneezes with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.

– Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

– Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing noses, coughing and/or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

– Practicing social distancing. Stay at least six feet away from others, avoid unnecessary travel, avoid handshakes, hugs and other close contact.

To slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the number of people infected, ARHS advises that communities should be following the guidance set by local, state and federal officials to reduce frequency of contact and increase physical distance between persons, thereby reducing the risks of person-to-person transmission.

ARHS encourages the community to visit the following websites for information about COVID-19:

Albemarle Regional Health Services: http://www.arhs-nc.org/ or call 252-338-WELL

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/

Center for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/

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