PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon health officials on Friday reported another COVID-19 death and 73 new cases in the state.
A 71-year-old Polk County man died Thursday at Salem Hospital. He had underlying medical conditions and tested positive for COVID-19 on March 19, according to the Oregon Health Authority.
The total number of known coronavirus cases in Oregon is 899.
Oregon’s 73 new cases are in the following counties:
- Benton County: 2
- Clackamas County: 5
- Clatsop County: 1
- Crook County: 1
- Deschutes County: 4
- Klamath County: 5
- Malheur County: 1
- Marion County: 14
- Morrow County: 1
- Multnomah County: 15
- Polk County: 2
- Washington County: 17
- Yamhill County: 5
While federal authorities may recommend wearing masks in public, the Oregon Health Authority is reminding people that staying home and avoiding all contact with others continues to be the most important thing we can do to stay healthy and keep others healthy.
During moments where people must go out of the house, they should stay at least 6 feet away from others at all times.
Health officials continue to urge all Oregonians to take steps to protect those who are most vulnerable to complications from COVID-19. Those considered high risk include adults 60 and older, or anyone with a serious health condition, including lung or heart problems, kidney disease, or diabetes, or anyone who has a suppressed immune system.
People vulnerable to complications should follow federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to stay home as much as possible and avoid gatherings. Every resident should take these basic steps to protect those most at risk:
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home if you feel ill.