The MSDH reported the first coronavirus related death on Thursday.
From MSDH:
JACKSON, Miss. – Today the Mississippi State Department of Health
(MSDH) reports the first death from coronavirus (COVID-19) in
Mississippi. The case was a male 60-65 years old from Hancock County
with chronic underlying conditions. He died in a Louisiana hospital.
“As the coronavirus outbreak began claiming lives across the world,
we knew this would eventually hit Mississippi. But that doesn’t make it
any easier for Mississippi to lose one of our own. Elee and I are
praying for all their loved ones and their community as we all deal with
this tragic loss,” said Governor Tate Reeves.
Currently, Mississippi has reported 50 positive cases. A total of 602
have been tested by the MSDH Public Health Laboratory and private
laboratories.
“I am extremely saddened to report this death. My heart goes out to
this gentleman’s wife and family. While we knew it was a strong
possibility that we would soon have a COVID-19 death, it doesn’t make it
any easier to handle,” said MSDH State Health Officer Thomas Dobbs, MD,
MPH. “Many people will survive this virus with mild to severe symptoms,
but we remain very concerned for those over 65 and immunocompromised
populations – those most at risk to infection from this virus.”
Dobbs said as this virus continues to spread rapidly, prevention has
never been more important. Preventive measures Mississippians can take
include the following:
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing
or sneezing, blowing your nose, and using the bathroom. Effective
handwashing takes about 20 seconds, and includes cleaning under
fingernails, between fingers, and washing the back of hands as well as
the front.
Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with anyone who is ill.
Cover your coughs and sneezes. When possible, cough, sneeze or blow your nose into a tissue, and throw the tissue away.
If you are sick, especially with shortness of breath, severe cough,
fever or severe chest pain, call a doctor or healthcare provider for
instructions on being safely examined.
Avoid social gatherings where 10 people or more would come into close contact.
Practice social distancing.
For more information on prevention measures and the latest guidance, download the free MS Ready mobile app or visit HealthyMS.com/covid-19.
