The first death of a Tyrrell County resident from COVID-19 was reported Monday, bringing the death toll in the 12-county region to 40.
According to a statement from Martin-Tyrrell-Washington District Health, the patient died at an area hospital. No additional information was released to protect the privacy of the family.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the individual’s family, friends and caretakers, said Wes Gray, MTW Health Director.
“This loss of one of our community members hits home,” Gray said. “It is critical that our community continues to practice preventative measures to slow the spread of COVID-19.”
A total of 1,398 deaths have been reported in North Carolina from COVID-19, along with 74,529 laboratory-confirmed cases.
There have been 16 positive tests for the coronavirus from residents of Tyrrell County, which is North Carolina’s smallest by population.
There will be a drive-thru COVID-19 testing event behind the Tyrrell County Health Department on Martha Street in Columbia on Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m.
Residents of Tyrrell, Hyde, Washington and Martin counties, ages 10 and up, are eligible. All insurances cover the COVID-19 test, incluiding Medicare and Medicaid. Patients without insurance will receive a test at no cost.
Appointments are required for the testing event, call 252-793-1751.
