The Orange County Health Department reports that two people have died in Orange County as a result of COVID-19.The first death was reported on Wed., Mar. 25. The deceased, who passed away, was an Orange County resident over the age of 80, with multiple pre-existing medical conditions. The second resident who died was over the age of 70 with multiple pre-existing medical conditions. As of Thurs., Mar. 26, Orange County has 756 positive COVID-19 cases.
“We are saddened to learn that another Orange County resident has died as a result of COVID-19,” Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to both of their families. We are also extremely grateful for those who are providing essential medical services to patients during this time. We continue to urge the community to practice vigilance, social distancing and public health hygiene in an effort to slow down the spread of the coronavirus.”
Orange County Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman noted that COVID-19 has spread quickly throughout Orange County. Gelman recommends that all residents stay home, including children and teenagers not in school, unless they must get food, medical supplies, or must go to work. Try to use delivery services when possible. Keep your distance from other people as much as possible, following the recommendation of six feet.
Gelman advised residents to consider any public site in Orange County as a potential site of COVID-19 exposure. Any events and gatherings of people still scheduled to take place in the coming weeks must be canceled or face fines imposed by County ordinances. If you become mildly ill, stay home and manage your symptoms. For residents who have severe symptoms indicative of COVID-19, contact your medical provider to discuss a plan of care. The Health Department is advising people with mild illness to stay home and not get tested. Do not dial 9-1-1 unless you have an immediate medical emergency.
According to Gelman, the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, continues to be to practice basic, common-sense personal hygiene. This includes washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, refraining from touching your face and avoiding unnecessary contact with others.
Should you feel ill, contact your healthcare provider first. Do not go directly to the doctor’s office, an emergency room or other healthcare facilities. These simple steps will help prevent the spread of the virus and protect you and your loved ones.
If you are an Orange County resident and have recently traveled outside the County and have questions regarding COVID-19, contact the Orange County Department of Health at 291-2330. Due to the high volume of calls, the Health Dept. encourages residents who have basic questions to visit www.orangecountygov.com/health.
In addition, for general questions, residents may also contact the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) 2019 Novel Coronavirus hotline at 1-888-364-3065 to speak with a NYSDOH expert who will answer questions. This is open 24 hours a day.
