Owensboro Suffers First Coronavirus-Related Death

Incredibly sad news to share today. And it's news that reinforces just how serious the coronavirus pandemic is.  We have learned that Owensboro/Daviess County has suffered its first COVID-19-related death.

According to the Green River District Health Department:

On Tuesday March 31, 2020 the Green River District Health Department reported 3 additional confirmed COVID-19 cases. There was one new case each in Daviess, Henderson, and Webster Counties. The total number of cases reported in the district is now 44.

The health department also reported the first death of COVID-19 patient. The person was a resident of Daviess County.

In light of today's news, Clay Horton, local Public Health Director, is stressing the importance of social distancing and following the CDC's established guidelines for flattening the curve.  He said, “People still need to vigilant in helping stop the spread. We know there are COVID-19 cases in our communities and the lab confirmed cases are only a portion of what is in the community."

I have spoken to friends of the local victim who are devastated by the news. According to the folks I spoke with this morning, the victim received a positive coronavirus test just days ago and, after feeling better briefly, eventually lost his battle with the disease.

Of course, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear recently encouraged fellow Kentuckians to follow his lead and light their houses green in honor of those in the Commonwealth who succumb to the virus.  Obviously, here in Owensboro and Daviess County tonight, many of us will be doing so.