August 31, 2021 3:31 PM
San Miguel County Mourns the Loss of Two Residents
(August 31, 2021) – San Miguel County Public Health regretfully confirms two resident deaths related to COVID-19 occurring on August 22 and 23.
A 60-year-old male tested positive for COVID at the time of death and a postmortem examination determined that the virus was the leading cause of death. Additionally, an 83-year-old male had a pre-existing health issue that was determined to be the leading cause of death though tested positive for COVID-19 postmortem, which may have been a contributing factor in the rapid passing of the man. Both west end residents were unvaccinated.
Additionally, Public Health confirms two hospitalized west end residents including a 79-year-old female and a 63-year-old male. The most recent updates from Public Health detail that both unvaccinated patients have recovered and were released within a few days of hospital admission.
As of this morning, there are thirty-three active cases in San Miguel County. In response to the continued climb and severity of COVID presence throughout San Miguel County, Public Health will discuss a potential public health policy requiring universal mask usage indoors in public places during the Public Health update at Wednesday’s Board of County Commissioners Meeting. The requirement would go into effect at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, September 1.
“Not only have we seen a sustained increase in COVID presence across the county, but also in hospitalization rate and deaths related to COVID,” said Public Health Director Grace Franklin. “The spread of the virus remains highly dependent on how closely people are packed together, where people are gathering and what precautions they are taking. We cannot allow this virus to spread out of control. It is critical that we implement the necessary protections our communities deserve.”
Public Health emphasizes that those who are at-risk of severe disease and the worst possible outcomes due to infection should take extra care. Those who are immunocompromised, elderly or have comorbidities are considered the most susceptible to infection and hospitalization when it comes to COVID-19.
The discussion surrounding the indoor mask requirement will take place during Wednesday’s BOCC meeting at 12:45 pm MST and is open to the public via Zoom meeting ID 534 180 495 and passcode 014 764. TO learn more about the county’s current COVID-19 metrics, please visit the SMC COVID-19 dashboard.