Dutchess County Confirms First COVID-19 Related Death

Poughkeepsie… The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has confirmed the first death relating to COVID-19 in Dutchess County. While specific information cannot be provided for privacy reasons, it was confirmed the individual was a 69-year-old male who developed respiratory distress and went directly to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital where he was treated, but died on Friday, March 20, 2020. The individual had not been screened or monitored by DBCH prior to hospitalization.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “We have lost a neighbor and extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. We are grateful to the compassionate healthcare professionals on the front line today caring for patients across our community. This is a stark reminder of the challenge and toll we all face as come together to respond to this emergency.”

Behavioral & Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian said, “We offer our deepest condolences to the family. We have been in touch with the family for necessary screening as well as support during this very difficult time. Our entire team continues to work aggressively to fight this battle against COVID-19 and we implore every individual to do their part in the fight by staying home and helping to stop the spread.”

There are currently more than 60 positive cases of COVID-19 and the numbers are expected to increase as more testing becomes available this week. Staying home is critical to stop the spread of COVID-19 to flatten the curve.

Dutchess County Government continues to provide residents the most current information and guidance on its website, http://www.dutchessny.gov/coronavirus, its Coronavirus hotline, (845) 486-3555, and its Facebook and Twitter accounts.

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