Coronavirus Latest: Baltimore City Reports First 2 COVID-19 Deaths
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The City of Baltimore announced Saturday its first two COVID-19 related deaths.
Officials said one victim was a woman in her 60s and the other victim was a woman in her 80s, both with underlying medical conditions.
Mayor Jack Young sent out the following statement Saturday in a press release:
"It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I report the first two deaths linked to the COVID-19 virus. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this difficult time. It is vital that we continue to protect each other and vigilantly practice social distancing to safeguard our community."
Mayor Young reminded residents that gatherings of 10 or more people are prohibited and urged residents to stay at home to help limit the spread of the virus.
CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE:
- Coronavirus Resources: How To Get Help In Maryland
- Here Are The Symptoms Of Coronavirus And When To Seek Help
- Coronavirus In Maryland: What We Know
- Coronavirus-Related Closings
- Latest coronavirus stories from WJZ
Baltimore City Council President Brandon Scott also offered his prayers to the families of the victims.
He said, in part:
"I am deeply saddened to learn that two Baltimore City residents have passed away due to COVID-19. This is unfortunate and unimaginable, and my heart goes out to both of their families.
Baltimore, we have to do all we can to support families and keep people safe. This virus is serious. Practice social distancing like your life, your parents' life, and your grandparents' life depends on it — because it really does."
There are now 1,000 cases of coronavirus in Maryland after Gov. Larry Hogan announced an outbreak at a nursing home in Carroll County in which 66 residents tested positive.
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.