PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — Gov. Larry Hogan announced the first COVID-19 death in Maryland on Wednesday, as a Prince George's County resident in his 60s who suffered from an underlying medical condition.
"It is with profound sadness that I announce the first death in Maryland as a result of the coronavirus pandemic," Hogan said in a statement. "I ask all Marylanders to join me in praying for his family and loved ones during this difficult time. As we pray for his loved ones, I ask that we continue to pray for each other, for our state, and for our nation as we face this crisis together. We must use every possible resource at every level of government to save lives and keep people safe."
The man had no known travel history and may have contracted the virus through community transmission, Hogan said during a news conference on Thursday morning.
Currently, Maryland has 107 positive cases across the state, with 20 cases in Prince George's County -- the second most affected county in the state, behind Montgomery County with 31 cases.
To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Maryland Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Check the status of the virus in your state with your state health department's websites by tapping below: