(St. Joseph, MI) - The Berrien County Health Department is reporting its first death of a resident from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The person who died was a male over the age of 70 who was hospitalized at Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph. He did have serious underlying health conditions. The county currently has 32 positive cases of COVID-19, including this reported death. Many of these individuals are recovering from their symptoms at home, and at this time, 10 of those positive cases are known to have fully recovered from their symptoms.

“On behalf of the entire Spectrum Health Lakeland team our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this individual,” said Loren B. Hamel, MD, president, Spectrum Health Lakeland. “We realize this is difficult news for our community and these are unprecedented and uncertain times for all. We have the deepest compassion for our friends and neighbors who fall sick, and for our team members who remain committed to care for our COVID-19 patients and fight this virus together.”

“This is a tragic loss of life and we share our heartfelt condolences with the family,” said Nicki Britten, health officer of the Berrien County Health Department. Britten urges the continuation of social distancing under the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order. “Protecting the health of our community and slowing the spread of COVID-19 is our top priority.”