Deschutes County reports first COVID-19 death

Deschutes County is saddened to report the first death of a County resident due to COVID-19. A 63-year-old man died earlier today at St. Charles Health System. He had underlying medical conditions and was admitted to the hospital for COVID-19 symptoms yesterday. His case was identified through local contact tracing.

“Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of our community member that passed away today,” said Deschutes County Health Services Director Dr. George Conway.  “Our hearts are heavy with this news and we want to assure the community that Health Services is committed to containing the transmission of this virus in Central Oregon.”

Deschutes County Health Services wants to remind residents to take these steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wear a mask when out in public or around people you don’t live with;
• Maintain six feet of physical distance from people you don’t live with;
• Wash your hands frequently;
• Stay home if you feel ill; and
• Contact your doctor to be tested if you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19 

If you are experiencing symptoms and need guidance on when to seek medical care, please call the COVID-19 hotline at 541-699-5109.

As of July 14, Oregon Health Authority reports 276 cases of COVID-19 in Deschutes County. Of those, 198 are considered recovered.

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This information was not reflected in today’s Oregon Health Authority update. It will be reported in tomorrow’s data.