The Wilkes County Health Department is reporting thirty-six deaths associated with COVID-19 in Wilkes County. 

The first individual died on 11/6 from complications associated with the virus. The patient was in their 70’s with underlying health conditions. To protect the families’ privacy, no further information about these patients will be released.

“On behalf of the Wilkes County Local Health Department and Government, we extend our deepest sympathy to the family”, stated Rachel Willard, Health Director. “This unfortunate situation is a reminder that we should continue to be vigilant and not let our guard down, especially as we head into flu season. Please practice the 3 W’s (wait, wash, and wear) when outside your home.” 

If you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, we would recommend you be tested. This means if you are sick with a fever, cough or other mild symptoms, call your healthcare provider or Wilkes Health. Please do not just show up to a doctor’s office without calling first. This will help your provider prepare should you need to be tested and lessen the potential exposure to others. 

If you have a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Wilkes Health also wants to remind the public that community transmission is happening in Wilkes County. Every person is a potential carrier, even if no symptoms are present, so it’s urgent that every person -sick or healthy- stay home to the fullest extent possible and help break the chain of transmission. Wilkes Health wants to continue to encourage people to protect themselves to help lessen the spread of COVID-19 in our community. There are many ways we can all protect ourselves and our communities. 

If you go out you should practice the three W’s: Wear, Wait, and Wash. 

•Wear a face covering,

•Wait 6 feet apart from other people.

•Wash your hands often and