Berrien County resident dies of COVID-19

BERRIEN COUNTY, Ind. -- The Berrien County Health Department announced the first COVID-19 death in the county on Monday.

The man who died was 70-years-old and had other underlying health issues. He was hospitalized at Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph at the time of his death.

The county has 32 positive cases of COVID-19, including this case.

Most of the patients are recovering at home and 10 of the patients have fully recovered.

“On behalf of the entire Spectrum Health Lakeland team our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this individual,” said Loren B. Hamel, MD, president, Spectrum Health Lakeland. “We realize this is difficult news for our community and these are unprecedented and uncertain times for all. We have the deepest compassion for our friends and neighbors who fall sick, and for our team members who remain committed to care for our COVID-19 patients and fight this virus together.”

“This is a tragic loss of life and we share our heartfelt condolences with the family,” said Nicki Britten, health officer of the Berrien County Health Department.

Residents are encouraged to continue prevention efforts. Wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, avoid touching your face and avoid large gatherings. Social distancing of at least six feet is urged.

Free virtual screenings: Spectrum Health offers free virtual screenings for COVID-19 to those in Michigan who have symptoms and may be concerned they have the virus. Callers to the screening line (616.391.2380) will be asked a series of questions about their condition by a provider who will advise whether they need to seek additional care.

Berrien County residents with questions related to COVID-19 are encouraged to call 1-800-815-5485, the Berrien County COVID-19 Response Hotline.

Berrien County residents are urged not to call Public Safety Dispatch with non-emergency questions or concerns regarding interpretation of or compliance with Executive Orders. Residents are asked to call the Berrien County COVID-19 Response Hotline at (800) 815-5485 instead.

There is an online tip form to assist those wanting to report a violation of the Executive Order. The tip form can be found at www.bcsheriff.org/ExecutiveOrderTip.