WISE COUNTY, VA. — The health district covering Wise County, Va., has confirmed the county’s first death related to the novel coronavirus.

In a Facebook post last Saturday, the Lenowisco Health District of the Virginia Department of Health reported that the district, which covers Wise and Lee counties, as well as the city of Norton, Virginia, has experienced its first COVID-19-related death.

“We regret to announce that we have experienced our first local COVID-19-related fatality in Wise County, Va.,” the statement says. “VDH extends its sincere condolences to this person’s family.”

Information on the age, gender and location of the patient was not released. The health district is warning those at risk to be cautious during the ongoing pandemic.

“Those over 65 and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications from COVID-19,” the statement says. “Everyone, especially at-risk individuals, are strongly advised to take steps to minimize contact with others who are ill, practice social distancing and stay at home as much as possible.”

According to the Virginia Department of Health, there are currently eight confirmed COVID-19 case in Wise County and six in Lee County. According to the VDH website, Virginia has experienced 141 COVID-19-related deaths.

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