LANSING, MI - This afternoon the Ingham County Health Department (ICHD) sent out a press release reporting that Ingham County has just experienced its first death related to COVID-19. The deceased individual was an adult male in his 50s.

According to the press release, the patient had underlying health conditions that were likely a contributing factor to his death. They state that while COVID-19 can be a mild illness for at least 80 percent of the population, it can be severe for others, especially for individuals who have pre-existing health conditions or are older.

Ingham County Health Officer Linda L. Vail had this to say, "We send our deepest condolences to the grieving family members and friends at this time. It’s a sobering reminder of why people must practice
social distancing. Not everyone who has the coronavirus will be sick. Distance yourself from others as if everyone has it. Be diligent with hand washing. Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.”

The ICHD stated that the patient did not expose the general public to the coronavirus. To date, there are 91 cases of COVID-19 in Ingham County.

For additional information, Ingham County residents can call the ICHD COVID-19 response line at 517.887.4517or visit their website listed below.