Elkhart County has reported its first death from COVID-19, according to the Elkhart County Department of Emergency Management.

The 80-year-old patient who died had several other medical conditions.

He died at an Elkhart County hospital.

Indiana: 2,159 cases, 49 deaths

• Elkhart Co.: 20 cases, 1 death
• Fulton Co.: 1 case
• Kosciusko Co.: 5 cases
• La Grange Co.: 2 cases
• LaPorte Co.: 8 cases
• Marshall Co.: 3 cases
• St. Joseph Co.: 49 cases, 1 death (not all St. Joseph cases are included in state total)
• Starke Co.: 1 case

The best way to protect yourself from any respiratory illness, including COVID-19, is to:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60% or higher alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Practice social distancing of six feet or greater (no group functions such as book clubs, meetings, and or congregations of 10 or more)
• Stay home unless you need to go somewhere.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and then wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.