By Jon Johnson
SAFFORD – On Thursday, the Graham County Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the second death of a Graham County resident related to COVID-19.
The newest fatality was a patient in their 90s with underlying health conditions. Graham County reported its first death – a patient in their 70s with underlying health conditions – on Tuesday.
Additionally, the health department is investigating two new COVID-19 positive test results; one of which lives in Safford and one who lives in Pima. The two new cases – which brings Graham County’s total to 27 since the start of the pandemic – are related to the new local cluster announced Monday. All known close contacts to the new positives have been notified and have been placed on quarantine by the health department.
Out of the 27 total cases, five have been under the age of 20, one is 21 – 34 years old, 12 are 35 – 60 years old, and 9 are 65 years old or older.
Graham County has tested 517 patients with eight tests currently pending.
Greenlee County
The Greenlee County Health Department reported its recent second active case Wednesday to bring its total positive tests to four. The county’s first two cases have made a full recovery.
Greenlee County has tested 183 patients with 25 tests currently pending.
General things that everyone should do to prevent the spread of all respiratory illnesses 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 EPA registered household cleaning spray or wipes.
● Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
● Wear a facemask when in public.
● When shopping, limit the number of people who you take with you. If possible, pick one person from your household to do the shopping.
● Find up to date information at azhealth.gov/COVID-19 and at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
