NOTE: It’s not clear if this new death, recorded today, is the case alluded to in yesterday’s update. 

(UPDATE: It is not. So six Granada residents have died so far.)

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Press release from the Humboldt County Joint Information Center:

Humboldt County is reporting its 15^th COVID-related death today. Seventeen additional cases of the virus also were reported. The total number of county residents who have tested positive now stands at 1,374. 

The individual who died was in their 100s and a resident of Granada Rehabilitation and Wellness Center at the time of death. A total of 69 residents and 25 staff at the facility have tested positive for COVID-19, and six residents have died as of this morning. 

Humboldt County Health Officer Dr. Ian Hoffman said this is a tragic reminder of how quickly this virus can spread, especially in congregate living facilities. “What we’re seeing this week at Granada started around the week of Thanksgiving with the first identified cases,” he said. “Our concern continues for Granada until we know that all residents and staff are safe and recovered from the virus. This could still be another week or more.” 

Dr. Hoffman went on to urge every community member to do their part in combatting this virus. “Each one of us can do something to prevent further deaths,” he said. “If we wear a mask, physically distance and avoid gathering, the spread will slow in our community. These are still our best tools to prevent infections until the vaccine is widely available in the months to come.” 

For the most recent COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or during business hours by contacting covidinfo@co.humboldt.ca.us or calling 707-441-5000.