Humboldt County: Fourth COVID-Related Death, One New Case Reported Today

A fourth Humboldt County resident has died after being diagnosed with COVID-19. One additional case was confirmed today, bringing to 103 the total number of county residents who have tested positive for the virus.

The individual who died was an elderly resident of Alder Bay Assisted Living and was diagnosed with COVID-19 early in the facility’s outbreak. Humboldt County Health Officer Dr. Teresa Frankovich said, “We send our condolences for this loss to family, friends and caregivers.”

Another round of testing was completed today at the facility, and there are no new positive cases in staff or residents. Ten days have passed since the last new positive case at Alder Bay.

More than 700 individuals in our county reside in licensed skilled nursing or assisted living facilities. “These people, who are our friends, neighbors and loved ones, are among the most vulnerable to serious COVID-19 infections, and it is critically important that we protect them with all of the tools at our disposal,” Dr. Frankovich said. “Public Health and the Congregate Living Facilities Task Force in the Emergency Operations Center have been working to assist these facilities in preparedness and surveillance efforts and continue to do so.”

Dr. Frankovich went on to urge everyone in the community to do their part to limit spread of this virus. “All of us can also help by doing our best to prevent rapid spread of infection across the community as it increases the likelihood of asymptomatic workers bringing virus into a facility,” she said. “Facial coverings, social distancing and other efforts can truly make a difference.”

For the most recent COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or during business hours by contacting covidinfo@co.humboldt.ca.us or calling 707-441-5000.