The Dubois County Health Department has announced the first death of a Dubois County resident from the novel coronavirus.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of our first resident of Dubois County to novel coronavirus (COVID-19)," said Dubois County Health Officer Dr. Ted Waflart in a press release Monday afternoon.

"It is tragic whenever there is a loss of life. This is not the kind of news we ever want to announce. This serves as an unfortunate reminder to all the community about the importance to do all we can in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 and help protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors. The threat of this virus is real. We all have the ability to make a difference and we all have the responsibility to keep each other safe,” he added.

The press release noted that the individual did have underlying medical conditions.

According to the health department, no further information about the patient will be released due to privacy laws.

“All of us at the Dubois County Health Department mourn this death and extend our prayers and sympathies to the patient's family and friends," said Dr. Waflart.

The health department reminds the public that the best way to protect yourself and the rest of our community is to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face, avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home when you’re sick, cover your cough or sneeze and to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

They also say that it is very important to wear a cloth face mask when out in public and to continue social distancing even when you wear a mask.