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The death toll from COVID-19 in the Roanoke-Chowan area now stands at 58 after three more local citizens passed away earlier this week due to complications with the virus.

On Monday, Albemarle Regional Health Services (ARHS) received notification confirming two additional deaths associated with COVID-19 in Hertford County residents. Both individuals were over the age of 65. One of these deaths is associated with the facility outbreak at Accordius Creekside Care and Rehabilitation in Ahoskie. As of Monday there have been 12 deaths linked to COVID-19 at that facility.

In addition, ARHS has also received notification confirming the COVID-19 related death of a Bertie County resident. The individual was over the age of 65 and was a resident at the Windsor House. There have been two deaths among the 26 individuals (21 residents and five staff members) who tested positive for the virus at this facility.

These latest victims increased the COVID-19 death toll to 29 in Herford County and nine in Bertie County.

Northampton County has reported 17 deaths and three have succumbed to the virus in Gates County since the outbreak began in March.

The number of total cases is also on the rise in the Roanoke-Chowan area. Hertford County has seen 40 new cases since last Friday (Sept. 18). Bertie’s case count increased by 14; Northampton has 12 additional cases; and Gates County is up by 10 cases, all since Sept. 18.

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.