Catawba County News

Catawba County Announces Second Death Associated with COVID-19

Published: May 10, 2020

Catawba County Public Health is reporting the second COVID-19 associated death in Catawba County.

The individual had been hospitalized and died Sunday from complications associated with the virus. The patient was in their early 70s and had underlying medical conditions. The person did not reside at a senior living facility. To protect the family’s privacy, no further information about this patient will be released.

"We are saddened by the news of a second COVID-related death in our community. Our condolences go out to this person’s loved ones," said Catawba County Health Director Jennifer McCracken. "This death is an unfortunate reminder that our fight against this disease is ongoing."

For most people, COVID-19 infection will cause mild illness. However, it can make some people very ill and, for some people, it can be fatal. If someone suspects they have COVID-19, they should contact their doctor or a local primary care provider to determine if they need to be tested. The decision to test is made by a person’s healthcare provider based on an evaluation of current symptoms, health status and testing guidelines.

According to updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

Anyone with more serious symptoms should call their doctor or 911 right away. More serious symptoms can include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion or blue lips.