COVID-19 UPDATE April 6, 2020, First Local Death
JOINT STATEMENT FROM BASTROP COUNTY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
(Includes Bastrop County, City of Bastrop, City of Elgin, City of Smithville)
BASTROP COUNTY HEALTH AUTHORITY CONFIRMS FIRST LOCAL DEATH FROM COVID-19
April 6, 2020
The Bastrop County Health Authority has confirmed the first local death from the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The individual was a 58-year-old male from Elgin, in northern Bastrop County.
“Know that the prayers of Bastrop County are with this family as they mourn their loss,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Bastrop County Health Authority. “We strongly recommend that all Bastrop County residents, workers, students, and visitors take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against COVID-19. We continue working with local, state, federal, and community partners to prevent future cases and to educate those in Bastrop County about how to avoid contracting COVID-19.”
“This troubling news hits close to home,” said Elgin Mayor Chris Cannon. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Again, I ask everyone to please take this situation seriously and limit contact with others.”
Although most individuals who contract the virus will not need medical care, residents who develop low to moderate fever, cough, and shortness of breath are encouraged to contact their primary care physician and to follow their advice.
“We extend our deepest condolences to this citizens’ loved ones in the wake of this loss,” said County Judge Paul Pape. “This tragic outcome is clear evidence of the gravity of the world-wide pandemic. Please take all precautions to avoid exposure to this deadly virus.”
The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in Bastrop County as of today is 11, including this victim. One other patient has recovered and been released by their doctor.
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to take the following preventive actions to avoid exposure:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people.
- Stay home when you are sick and call your doctor.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Always check with trusted sources for the latest accurate information about novel coronavirus. Official information will come by and through the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management as a press release or statement using the OEM social media or other news outlets. You can trust what comes from our Public Information Officers working together in our Joint Information Center.
“Older citizens in our community and those with underlying health conditions or a compromised immune system tend to be more susceptible to COVID-19,” said Bastrop County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “These residents should be in immediate contact with their health care provider should they develop a fever, cough or experience shortness of breath.”
