Third COVID-19 Related Death Confirmed in Dutchess

Third COVID-19 Related Death Confirmed in Dutchess

Poughkeepsie… The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has confirmed the death of a third Dutchess County resident relating to COVID-19. DBCH confirmed a 61-year-old male died on Sunday, March 29, 2020 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie after being admitted for an unrelated condition and swabbed for COVID-19, which was confirmed positive. The individual had not been known to DBCH until his hospitalization. Further specific information cannot be provided for privacy reasons.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “As our hearts go out to the loved ones and friends of the third Dutchess County resident claimed by this pandemic, it must also be a stark reminder that there is nowhere in our County untouched by our fight against COVID-19. It remains all of our responsibility to help stop the spread as the human toll of this fight continues to rise. Our community has come together in so many ways, from our brave healthcare professionals and response personnel to neighbors volunteering to help in myriad ways. We ask all residents to continue to do their part: stay home and stay safe, ensuring our healthcare system is not overwhelmed and minimizing the risk to those essential responders working day and night to protect Dutchess County.”

County Executive Molinaro continues to ask residents to remain home to limit the community spread of the virus and limit their interactions, staying at least 6 feet apart, while making brief trips outside home to grocery stores and pharmacies.

Behavioral and Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian said, “Our department is using every resource available to combat COVID-19 in our community, and we implore residents to do their part to assist us in our efforts. To help us protect the safety of every resident, please stay home. The voluntary isolation is only temporary, but it can save countless lives.”

There are now more than 320 positive cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County, and as testing expanded locally last week, the number of positive cases will undoubtedly increase. Remaining at home is critical to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and flattening the curve so as not to overwhelm the local healthcare system and ensure everyone can get the care they need.

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.

Author: Harlem Valley News