A Prince George’s County resident in his 60s has become the first Maryland resident to die from the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to Gov. Larry Hogan. The man suffered from an underlying medical condition so far un-detailed by state or county health officials.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the first death in Maryland as a result of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Hogan in a brief statement issued March 17, 2020. “We must use every possible resource at every level of government to save lives and keep people safe.”
Hogan will hold a press conference at 10 a.m., March 19, 2020 to discuss the death, and provide more updates on the state’s pandemic response.
According to the latest numbers provided by the Maryland Department of Health as of Wednesday, March 18, 2020, there were 85 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus documented across the state. Prince George’s County accounts for 20 of those so far.
“This pandemic represents an unprecedented crisis for Prince George’s County,” read one message of solace from Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks posted to Twitter.
County health officials have warned the virus is spreading through Prince George’s County – and the rest of the world – among people who have no symptoms. The virus poses a high-risk for the elderly and individuals who are immunocompromised. Federal, state and local health officials strongly urge people to avoid crowds. All dine-in bars and restaurants are closed in Maryland.
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