July 29: Umatilla County Health Reports 20th Death from Coronvirus

Another Umatilla County resident has died from coronavirus, according to local health officials.

Umatilla County’s 20th COVID-19 death is a 68-year-old female who tested positive July 10 and died July 28 at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Wash. This individual had underlying conditions.

Umatilla County Health also reported 76 new confirmed cases of coronavirus, bringing the county’s total so far to 1,770. Of that total, 1,576 have recovered.

There are 106 presumed cases of coronavirus in the county. Thirteen people are currently hospitalized.

Individuals are considered recovered when they have been free from symptoms including fever, cough, shortness of breath and diarrhea for 72 hours.

County officials reiterated their advice to residents to take precautions against the spread of coronvirus:

It is imperative that any person who is exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness stay home. UCo Health continues to discover instances where individuals are continuing to work while sick. Now, more than ever, it is important for businesses to ensure that employees are not coming to work sick. Employees may feel internal and external pressure to work through mild illness. Businesses are encouraged to develop flexible leave policies to support employees who become ill and establish procedures for sending employees who are not feeling well home. Anyone who is exhibiting any symptoms of respiratory illness must stay home from work for 72-hours after all symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, etc.) have resolved.

As Gov. Kate Brown lifts restrictions on activities and businesses, it’s important to remember that health and hygiene advice that slows the spread of COVID-19 still applies:

• Stay home if you are sick. If you develop symptoms while in public, return home and self-isolate immediately. Contact your health care provider if you need medical attention.
• People who are at risk for severe complications (over age 60 or have underlying medical conditions) should stay home even if you feel well.
• Practice good hand hygiene with frequent handwashing for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer (60-95% alcohol content).
• Cover coughs/sneezes with your elbow or a tissue and avoid touching your face.
• Practice physical distancing of at least six feet between you and people you do not live with.
• Use cloth, paper or disposable face coverings in public.
• Stay close to home. Avoid overnight trips and other non-essential travel, including recreational day trips to destinations outside the community where you live.