VDH reports that 2 children from Central Virginia die of COVID-19

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RICHMOND, Virginia (WWBT) – The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed the deaths of two children in Central Virginia due to COVID-19.

One of the deaths was in the Chesterfield health district and the other was in the Richmond-Henrico health districts.

The child who died in Chesterfield Health District was between 10 and 19 years old.

“We are saddened that COVID-19 is affecting those so young and, on behalf of the Chesterfield Health District, we extend our most sincere condolences to the family,” Drs. Alexander Samuel, director of the Chesterfield Health District. “Unfortunately, this tragic event shows that COVID-19 is circulating in our communities and that we all have a responsibility to continue to do everything possible to prevent the spread of this virus. This includes taking the COVID-19 vaccine and taking all prevention measures, such as wearing masks and avoiding congestion ”.

The death of Chesterfield Health District is already reflected in state health data.

Health officials said the child who died in the Richmond-Henrico health districts was between 0 and 9 years old.

“Our hearts are heavy as we share this tragic and devastating news,” says Dr. Melissa Viray, deputy director of RHHD. “We send our condolences to the family and we are thinking of them at this incredibly difficult time.”

The death of Richmond-Henrico health districts will be reflected Friday in the state’s COVID-19 dashboard.

Health officials said vaccinating against COVID-19 remains the best way to protect the most vulnerable, including children too young to be vaccinated.

The RHHD recommends the following:

  • Children 12 years of age and older should be vaccinated against COVID-19
  • Anyone who spends time with children under the age of 12 should be vaccinated against COVID-19
  • Children should wear masks indoors with people who are not part of their household and should practice social distancing
  • People who test positive for COVID-19 should follow personal isolation guidelines to avoid passing COVID-19 to children.

As of Thursday, the latest figures from the VDH program show that there are about 119,000 cases of COVID-19 among people under 19 years of age. The state also sees another surge in cases with more than 2,700 new cases of COVID overnight. Hospitalizations have also risen to about 1,300. The positivity rate has risen to 8.8%

The number of fully protected adults has not been the same increase. The number of fully vaccinated adults remains at 55.3%.

With cases increasing and vaccinations only exceeding 55%, VCU health experts urge those who can be vaccinated to do so immediately.

“Poliomyelitis and smallpox no longer exist because everyone has been vaccinated,” Dr. John McCarthy with VCU health. “We should strive to do the same with COVID-19, and the only way to do that is if virtually no one is susceptible to it. Why give him a place to live? “

VDH said the child who died in the Richmond-Henrico health district was the 10th in the state and the second in the district.

For more information on COVID-19 prevention, visit rchd.com or call 804-205-3501.

Copyright 2021 WWBT. All rights reserved.

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