Glenn County announces first coronavirus death
WILLOWS » Glenn County announced Wednesday that a resident within the county died from COVID-19 complications after an “extended stay” at a local hospital. It marks the first virus-related death in the county since March, when counties first began reporting cases.
The resident, who was over the age of 70, had “multiple underlying chronic health conditions,” according to a press release from Glenn County Health and Humans Services. The county has not determined how the person contracted the virus.
“We are saddened to announce our first death of a resident from COVID-19. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time,” Glenn County Health Officer Dr. Jared Garrison said in a press release.
The health department also stated that the individual resided in the north part of Glenn County, where a majority of cases have occurred to date. Of 190 total cases, more than 160 are linked to residents in the north section of the county, with less than 20 cases in the south.
There are currently 29 active cases in the county,
26 of which are isolating from home, while the remaining three are hospitalized. A total of 160 people have recovered from the virus.
Through its contact tracing and investigation team, the county has been able to identify the source of spread of approximately 90 percent of its cases, according to Amy Travis, deputy director at Glenn County Office of Emergency Services. Many cases have been identified as spreading via household contacts and social gatherings.
The county said in the release that people should avoid gathering in groups, including social gatherings, and adhere to the following guidelines:
• Wear a face covering when in public spaces
• Use good hygiene and sanitation, washing hands frequently and cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Stay home when you are sick
Prior to Wednesday’s announcement, Glenn County was one of 14 California counties that had not seen any deaths related to COVID-19. In neighboring counties, Butte County has reported four deaths to date and Tehama County has reported one death.