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By José A. Álvarez, County of San Diego Communications Office
An 87-year-old woman is the latest San Diegan to die from complications from COVID-19, bringing the region’s total to three, the County Health and Human Services Agency announced today.

“The loss of life is always a tragic occurrence,” said Dr. Nick Yphantides, County chief medical officer, adding that the woman had underlying medical conditions. “Our condolences go out the woman’s family and loved ones.”

Earlier today, County health officials continued to urge San Diegans to remain at home to prevent contracting the novel coronavirus and potentially exposing others to COVID-19.

All the guidelines being issued will help prevent many people from getting sick at the same time and “flatten the curve” of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social distancing has been proven to slow the spread of pandemics so that sick people don’t overwhelm health care systems. Should that occur, there might not be enough hospital beds or mechanical respirators for everyone who needs them.

But being at home, does not necessarily mean you should not go out entirely.

You can go out to:
•Get food and other essential needs. Plan so you make as few trips out as possible.
•Care for a family member, relative or friend
•Get medical attention
•Pick up medications
•Walk your dog
•Go for a walk if you only do it with people living with you
•Work if you’re an essential employee

County COVID-19 Cases Reach 341

County officials also revealed some new statistics on COVID-19. To date:
•More than 4,000 San Diegans have been tested, resulting in 341 local cases, including 64 new cases reported today. The County’s total no longer includes non-residents to avoid double counting in the state.
•More than 543,000 personal protective equipment items have been distributed to the local medical community, including 423,805 N-95 respirators.
•More than 2,000 hotel rooms have been secured to isolate people who have potential COVID-19 symptoms and people who are vulnerable and have no place to live.
•257 handwashing stations have been placed throughout the region and bathrooms are also being ordered.
•County Homeless Outreach Teams have distributed 1,785 hygiene kits among people who are homeless.

The County’s COVID-19 webpage now contains a graph showing new positive cases and total cases reported by date. For more information, visit www.coronavirus-sd.com.

José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office