The Fountain & Warren County (Indiana) Department of Health says two people from Warren County have died from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Both victims are adult males who died on Monday (March 30, 2020).
‘’It is with sadness that we announce our first two deaths from COVID-19,’’ said Dr. Sean Sharma of the Fountain & Warren County Health Department. ‘’We implore individuals in our community to take action to help slow the spread of the virus. This disease impacts us all no matter where you live,’’ added Dr. Sharma. ‘’Together we can make a difference that can help save lives.’’
One of the victims was an adult male, over the age of 60, from Warren County who died at a regional hospital on Monday. The person had been diagnosed as a COVID-19 patient. No other information on the victim was released out of respect for the family.
The second victim, also a male over 60, died at his Warren County home on Monday. He had also been diagnosed as having COVID-19 by his medical provider.
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that is commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
- Respiratory droplets released through the air by coughing and sneezing;
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands;
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands.
Many people who acquire COVID-19 will have mild symptoms. Those individuals can still spread the disease and must self-isolate, said Dr. Sharma. Many do not need to see a doctor or be tested. Older individuals and those with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness and may need to seek medical care for severe symptoms.
The best way to protect yourself is to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, avoid close contact with others, stay home when you are sick, cover your cough, and clean frequently touched objects and surfaces.
‘’Your actions can make a difference,’’ added Dr. Sharma.
