Coconino County Health officials confirm first death due to COVID-19

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) confirmed the first COVID-19 related death in Coconino County. The individual was a male in his 50s with underlying health conditions.

CCHHS is working to identify and contact anyone who may have been in close contact with the decedent. These individuals will be asked to quarantine or isolate as necessary and will be monitored by public health for fever and respiratory symptoms.

“Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time,” said County Incident Commander and Deputy County Manager Dr. Marie Peoples. “We share in this family’s grief and are deeply committed to doing all we can to ensure the health and safety of our community. We urge everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and their family including washing their hands frequently, staying home when they are sick and contacting a healthcare provider for medical guidance. “

To date, there have been 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Coconino County. COVID-19 can be a serious disease, especially in elderly populations and people with underlying health conditions.

CCHHS urges people to continue to take precautions. The best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

COVID-19 spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure and consist of fever, cough and difficulty breathing. For people with mild illness, individuals are asked to stay home, drink plenty of fluids and rest. For people with more severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, individuals are advised to seek healthcare.

Coconino County activated the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on March 12, 2020. The EOC coordinates the County’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information about COVID-19, please visit www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 or email COVID19Information@coconino.az.gov.

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One thought on “Coconino County Health officials confirm first death due to COVID-19”

  1. This story begs the question What about hydroxychloroquine? Are the Drs in Flagg even aware of the drug? Did they offer it and the patient refused? Did they administer it and it didn’t work? Do they just allow people infected to die without even trying this drug that has been successful now all over the world treating the virus?

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