Middlesex COVID-19 cases confirmed 

First two are a couple in their 70s; first Three Rivers COVID death reported in Gloucester

by Tom Chillemi – 

Three Rivers Health District officials reported last week that COVID-19 claimed the life of a woman in her 40s — it was the first death due to the coronavirus in the district, which includes Middlesex and nine surrounding counties. “We are investigating how she may have obtained the virus in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Dr. Richard S. Williams, director of Three Rivers Health District of the Virginia Department of Health, which covers the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck. Its 10-county area includes all of Middlesex County, as well as Essex, Mathews, Lancaster, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Richmond, Northumberland and Westmoreland counties. The death was reported April 8.

The woman was hospitalized in Gloucester. There were some underlying conditions, but COVID-19 was related to the case, said Dr. Williams.

As of Monday morning, there were 50 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Three Rivers District. Additionally, Middlesex County officials announced April 9 that a Middlesex couple in their 70s tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) at Virginia Commonwealth University. This marks the first time Middlesex County had confirmed cases of COVID-19. The possibility of community spread is being investigated. “We continue to stress that it is very important that the community remain calm and follow the guidance from the CDC and Health Department,” said County Administrator Matt Walker. “Following the governor’s Stay at Home Order and practicing social distancing give us the greatest chance of slowing the spread of the virus.”