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Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS) received notification on Saturday regarding the third death of a Bertie County resident from COVID-19.

ARHS officials said the individual was in the 50-64 age range with underlying health conditions and succumbed to complications from COVID-19.

To protect the family’s privacy, no further information about this patient will be released.

“We extend our deepest sympathies and are extremely saddened by the loss of another one of our community members. Our heart goes out to the individual’s family and friends,” said ARHS Health Director R. Battle Betts Jr.

As of Friday, May 8 – the day that Governor Roy Cooper ordered the state move into Phase 1 of a plan to slowly reopen the economy – Bertie County listed 58 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Sixteen of the cases were listed as active at that time, while 40 individuals had recovered from the virus.

“As we enter Phase 1, it is still very important that our community continue to practice prevention measures needed to slow the spread of COVID-19, especially handwashing, sanitation, and social distancing,” Betts stressed.

ARHS is continuing to ask citizens to be mindful in practicing preventive and safety measures. These precautions include:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Wash 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 sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Practice social distancing; stay at least six feet away from others, avoid unnecessary travel, avoid handshakes, hugs and other close contact.

Wear a cloth face covering in public when social distancing measures are hard to maintain

To slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the number of people infected, communities should be following the guidance set by local, state, and federal officials to reduce frequency of contact and increase physical distance between persons, thereby reducing the risks of person-to-person transmission.