It is with great sadness that Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is reporting the second COVID-19 related death of a resident in Harris County (outside the City of Houston). The woman, between the ages of 50-60 years old, lived in the northwest quadrant of Harris County. She had known exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 case and had underlying health issues. She was tested positive with COVID-19 after death and Harris County Institute of Forensic Science determined her primary cause of death as COVID-19.

“Our sincere condolences go out to the patient’s family and friends,” said Dr. Umair A. Shah, HCPH Executive Director. “We must do everything we can to protect ourselves and loved ones around us. Stay home as much as possible, continue to practice social distancing and every day precautionary measures.”

To date, HCPH has 240 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including the two deaths. HCPH is also confirming that 34 of our patients have recovered. As testing availability increases in our county, we expect to continue to have confirmed cases.

This is an important reminder that COVID-19 is a very serious disease, especially for those at an increased risk of developing serious complications including death. At-risk individuals are strongly advised to minimize contact with others who are ill, and practice social distancing

While 80% of individuals who contract COVID-19 will have mild to moderate symptoms and fully recover, they may spread the disease to people who are at high risk. The elderly and people with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are at much higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19.

For updates on COVID-19, including health tips, fact sheets, case counts, and other community resources, visit www.ReadyHarris.org and www.hcphtx.org.