COVID-19 Briefing for Friday, February 5, 2021 Three Additional COVID-19 Deaths in Macon County

The Macon County Health Department has announced there have been three more deaths due to COVID-19 in the county. Macon Media notes the health department has left off the standard boiler plate about age that has been published on every press release announcing deaths over the past year, so this likely means at least one of the victims was under 65 years of age. The press release is posted below and the new daily numbers of testing cases and vaccine delivery have been posted below that.

PRESS RELEASE
MACON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH

Macon County Reports Additional Deaths Related to COVID-19

Macon County Public Health received notification today that three Macon County residents diagnosed with COVID-19 have passed away. To protect the family ́s privacy, no further information will be released about these individuals. This death brings Macon County to twenty-two (22) deaths related to COVID-19.

Health Director, Kathy McGaha said, “We extend our deepest sympathies to these individual’s families and their loved ones. Every death from COVID-19 is a tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.” Ms. McGaha also stated, “Macon County has begun to vaccinate the community against COVID-19 to prevent future infections and death. However, while we still have a limited supply which has outpaced demand, it is important that our community continue to wash our hands, wait 6 feet apart, and wear a mask.”

The entire state of North Carolina is under a “Safer at Home” executive order, currently under phase three with masks required to be worn when social distancing cannot be maintained. Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19; however, anyone of any age can become infected with this illness. Therefore, we ask that community members strictly follow the governor’s orders and continue to practice social distancing, as well as safe hygiene measures such as hand washing and frequently cleaning touched objects and surfaces. The public can monitor the different phases of re-opening and learn more about the restrictions at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/guidance.

Symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, other lower respiratory illness (shortness of breath). If you believe that you may have COVID-19, please call the Health Department at 828-349-2517. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am – 5:00pm, until further notice.