The Virginia Department of Health’s New River Health District, based in Christiansburg, has confirmed that a resident of the district who was ill with COVID-19 has died.
The New River Health District is composed of the counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery and Pulaski and the City of Radford. District offices are in the Montgomery County Health Department, 210 S. Pepper St., Christiansburg. The Health District provides services in local health department clinics, schools, homes and at other sites within the community. Its overall goals are to promote health, prevent disease and protect the environment.
District director Dr. Noelle Bissell made the announcement of the death Wednesday. In a formal statement, Dr. Bissell said, “We regret to announce that we have experienced our first local COVID-19-related fatality. On behalf of all of us at the Virginia Department of Health, I extend sincere condolences to this person’s family.
“Unfortunately, we’ve learned that those over 65 and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications from COVID-19,” said Dr. Bissell. “Everyone, especially at-risk individuals, is strongly advised to take steps to minimize contact with others who are ill, practice social distancing and stay at home as much as possible.”
No statement as to the identity of the victim of the coronavirus has been made.
