First Houghton County COVID-19 Death Reported

From the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department:

The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) has confirmed that a person has died of complications surrounding COVID-19 in Houghton County. The elderly person was an inpatient at a local hospital at the time of their death. To date, there have been 2 deaths related to the virus within the 5-county jurisdiction.

“Our heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to the family who has lost their loved one,” said Kate Beer, Health Officer at WUPHD. “This is a sad reminder of the seriousness of the COVID-19 threat. We must continue our prevention efforts, especially for the safety of our elderly and vulnerable
populations.”

WUPHD reminds people to avoid close contact with people who are not part of your household as even people with mild or no symptoms can spread the virus. Masking, washing hands, and maintaining a 6-foot distance are steps that you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

WUPHD is working to coordinate their response with federal, state, and local officials, as well as healthcare professionals, institutions, schools and community organizations. For more information, please contact the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department at (906) 482-7382. Updates are also available at www.wuphd.org.

There is a State informational hotline available from 8 AM EST to 5 PM EST seven days per week. That number is 1-888-535-6136. Additional information on COVID-19 can be found on the MDHHS
website, or the CDC website.