Olmsted County reports first COVID-19 related death

Olmsted County has reported its first death due to the novel coronavirus.

According to Olmsted County Public Health, the individual was in their 90s and resided in a long-term care facility. Officials said no additional details will be released out of respect for the family and due to data privacy laws.

“Although this is not unexpected, it is still sad news for our community,” Olmsted County Public Health Director Graham Briggs said Thursday afternoon. “Our hearts go out to all the loved ones and care givers affected by this tragic death, and to all those suffering from this virus.”

The death is the 18th in Minnesota since the outbreak began. Out of that total, 12 had been residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Public health officials called the development in Olmsted County “a sad reminder” of how critical it is that “individuals and organizations take action to slow the spread of the virus.” Gov. Walz has issued a stay-at-home order through April 10, though it’s possible the order could be extended.

So far, 742 Minnesotans have tested positive for the disease. That is out of the 22,395 tests that have been processed. As of Thursday, 75 people remained hospitalized. About half of those patients were in the ICU.

In Olmsted County, there have been 66 cases, ranging in ages 6-90.

Have questions about COVID-19? The City of Rochester has set up a call center to answer questions about local response efforts and direct individuals to resources in the community. The number is (507) 328-2822.