PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll from this virus to three, the Oregon Health Authority said Wednesday.
The cases are a 60-year-old woman in Lane County, who died at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend on March 14, and a 71-year-old man in Washington County who died March 17 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center.
The Lane County woman tested positive for the virus March 17, while the Washington County resident received a positive result on March 16. Both had underlying medical conditions.
They are among a total of 75 people in Oregon who have been confirmed to have COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. That includes ten new cases that were confirmed statewide Wednesday in the following counties: Benton (1), Lane (2), Marion (4), Washington, (2) and Yamhill (1).
The Lane County woman, who lived in the Eugene-Springfield area, was experiencing cardiac arrest when she was arrived at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend on March 14, according to Lane County officials. A COVID-19 test was ran after her death and it returned positive on Tuesday.
Her official cause of death has not been determined but county officials called her positive COVID-19 test “concerning.” Lane County said a communicable disease investigation will be carried out.
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Meanwhile, authorities said COVID-19 testing had been completed on all 151 residents at a veteran’s home in Lebanon and there were no new positive results or pending cases. A total of 14 residents and one staff member previously tested positive for coronavirus at the facility. The residents who are presumptive positive for coronavirus are being cared for and the employee was sent home.
Officials continue to urge all Oregonians to take steps to protect themselves, their families, and those who are most vulnerable to complications from COVID-19. Those considered “high risk” include adults 60 and older, or anyone with a serious health condition, including lung or heart problems, kidney disease, diabetes, or anyone who has a suppressed immune system.
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Tips from the Oregon Health Authority:
- Never visit a hospital or long-term care facility if you have a fever or cough.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces like bathrooms, desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, faucet handles, toys and cell phones.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home and away from others if you are ill.
- After someone contracts COVID-19, illness usually develops within 14 days. Symptoms mirror those of the flu, including fever, cough, runny nose, headache, sore throat and general feelings of illness.
More information
CDC — Coronavirus
World Health Organization – Coronavirus information