Nursing home resident is first coronavirus-related death in Chatham County
A Chatham County nursing home resident is Chatham County’s first death from the coronavirus, according to a release from the county.
The person was a resident at The Laurels of Chatham Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Pittsboro and had been in declining health before the positive test.
“We are extremely saddened by the passing of a Chatham County resident due to this horrible virus,” Chatham County Public Health Director Layton Long said in a release. “We extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to the individual’s family, as well as the residents and staff of The Laurels.”
The Laurels has reported multiple cases of COVID-19 at the facility and Chatham County has 75 cases.
“Today’s sad news is a stark reminder of how serious the virus is and that all Chatham County residents should remain vigilant in doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Long wrote. “Now is not the time to become complacent, and we all must continue following these guidelines: Stay at home except for essential trips, avoid gathering with others who do not live with you, maintain at least six feet of distance from others if you must go out, wear a face covering and wash your hands regularly.”
North Carolina now has 109 COVID-19-related deaths and more than 5,000 cases.
This story was originally published April 14, 2020 at 3:14 PM.
