The Clallam County Department of Health on Aug. 14 reported the first Clallam County resident to die from the 2019 novel coronavirus.

The county resident was a man in his 80s who had underlying health conditions, health department officials said in a press release.

“It was very clear from our interactions with this man’s family how deeply he was loved,” said Dr. Allison Berry Unthank, Clallam County Health Officer. “We mourn with them today.”

As of Aug. 14, 146 residents of Clallam County have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Four have been hospitalized.

“As a community, we must stand together against this virus, showing compassion for our friends and neighbors by keeping a safe physical distance, keeping our social circlessmall, wearing face coverings and washing our hands,” Unthank said.

People older than 65 and those with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, COPD and heart disease are at the highest risk of complications from COVID-19, county health officials noted.

Though less common in younger age groups, severe complications have been documented in patients of all ages.

Clallam County residents are urged to:

• keep one’s social circle small (interaction with no more than five people in a week)

• maintain a safe physical distance of 6 feet from others

• wear a face covering when around others

• stay home if sick

• get tested right away if feeling ill or have been in contact with someone with COVID-19

• wash hands frequently

• clean commonly touched surfaces frequently

Find additional COVID-19 information at www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus.

Find local COVID-19 updates at www.clallam.net/Coronavirus.