BATESVILLE, Ind. – Margaret Mary Health announced that an 81-year-old man who passed away Friday marked the first confirmed COVID-19 death at the hospital.
The patient had tested positive for the virus and had multiple underlying health issues, the hospital said in a release Saturday.
“We realize it is difficult news for our community as we face the reality of the COVID-19 outbreak. Our hearts go out to the family of this patient and everyone who is impacted by this illness in our community,” said Tim Putnam, CEO of Margaret Mary Health. “This is a sobering reminder of how critical it is to help prevent the spread of this virus and how important it is for all of us to do our part in following the state order to stay home. I urge every member of this community to take this seriously and follow the recommended steps to help protect the most vulnerable – namely the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions.”
“As we continue to respond aggressively to this pandemic which has hit our community faster and harder than many other communities around the tri-state, we knew we would eventually have to make this announcement,” noted Putnam. “We are deeply saddened by this outcome but want the community to know all of our team members, from clinicians to support staff, are committed to fighting this virus and caring for our patients.”
The hospital strongly encourages all citizens to follow Indiana’s Stay-At-Home order and limit gatherings to 10 people or less.
If you are experiencing symptoms and need guidance on when to seek medical care, please call the MMH COVID-19 Hotline at 812.933.5556.
For recent updates on the COVID-19 pandemic, visit our website at mmhealth.org/covid-19.
To date, Indiana has reported more than 30 deaths in the state related to the coronavirus.
