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Beaufort County Health Department reported a second death in the county of a resident who tested positive for COVID-19, according to a press release from Jim Madson, Beaufort County’s health director.

The individual died earlier today. According to the press release, the patient was the 128th case of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 in the county. The deceased was 64 years old and had no major underlying health conditions reported.

To protect the family’s privacy, Madson said no further information would be released.

Beaufort County Health Department reported the county’s first COVID-related death in June. The elderly woman was the 56th person to test positive in the county for COVID-19 and passed away less than two weeks later.

The county currently has 249 confirmed tests at this time and 183 pending tests with more than 3,622 county residents having been tested to this point, the press release stated.

“Such a tragedy; my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who lost their loved one,” Madson said.

The press release encouraged residents to visit the website for information about COVID-19:  co.beaufort.nc.us/departments/human-services/public-health/2019-coronavirus-covid-19.  Additional questions or concerns can be sent to bchealth@bchd.net.

Continue to protect yourself and others by:

• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Practice social distancing (maintain at least 6 feet between you and others)
• Wear your mask when social distancing isn’t possible
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Staying home when you are sick
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or wipe
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or if soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.