The first death from COVID-19 has been confirmed in Cowley County, according to a news release from the City-Cowley County Health Department Thursday morning.
The patient was a male over the age of 60 with underlying health conditions. This is the same individual the department announced tested positive for the virus April 1. He died Wednesday while hospitalized in Wichita.
As of this writing, no other cases have been reported in the county.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of this community member,” Cowley County Public Heath Officer Thomas Langer stated. “Our deepest condolences go out to his friends, family, and loved ones.
“His passing is a sad reminder of how serious this disease can be. We continue to make the health of this community our top priority and ask that all citizens do what they can to help slow the spread of COVID-19, please stay at home.”
Cowley County residents are encouraged to help the community and its health care system flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19. They can do this by:
– Limiting public gatherings to 10 people or less
– Staying home
– Covering all coughs and sneezes
– Washing your hands for 15 to 20 seconds with soap and water
The City Cowley County Health Department continues to test individuals and will investigate all confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county and monitor people who are in close contact with cases.
So far, the health department says 88 people have been tested in Cowley County.
Residents who have general questions about COVID-19 or if they believe they need to be tested for the disease can call their primary doctor or the health department.
As of Wednesday at 2 p.m., the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported 1,046 positive cases of coronavirus across the state — and increase form 900 Tuesday. KDHE reported 248 hospitalizations, 38 deaths — excluding the latest from Cowley County — and 9,137 negative tests.
A third death from COVID-19 was reported in Kay County, Oklahoma, Wednesday, where there are 33 cases.
Overall, the state of Oklahoma has reported 1,524 positive cases and 79 deaths.
