Death toll reaches 7; Virginia Beach reports first fatality

A man in his 70s has died from COVID-19, the first coronavirus death reported in Virginia Beach and the seventh statewide, according to a statement Monday from the Virginia Beach Health District.

The man had underlying health conditions, according to a Monday afternoon news release, and the cause of death was acute respiratory failure. The health department has initiated an investigation of people with whom the deceased  came into contact. At this time, it is early in the process to identify the source of transmission, Virginia Department of Health says.

So far, five people in the Peninsula District have died from coronavirus-related causes, as well as one person in Fairfax County.

“It is a sad day in our city after learning a Virginia Beach resident has died of the virus. Our hearts go out to his family and friends,” Virginia Beach Health Director Dr. Demetria Lindsay said in a statement. “Elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of complications from COVID-19, including death. These at-risk individuals are strongly advised to take steps to minimize contact with others who are ill, practice social distancing, and stay at home as much as possible.”

The fatal case was the 18th positive case in the city of Virginia Beach. As of noon Monday, when VDH updated its numbers, there were 254 cases of COVID-19 statewide.

Gov. Ralph Northam announced Monday that schools will be closed the rest of the semester and placed restrictions on more businesses. For more, read here.