The number of COVID-19 cases is sky rocketing across the state and nation. In Louisiana, there are currently 77 reported cases. Governor John Bel Edwards is now reporting that one Louisiana resident has died due to complications caused by the virus.

According the Office of the Governor, 'the Orleans Parish resident was a 58-year-old individual with underlying health conditions. The patient was being treated at Touro Infirmary Hospital and Medical Center.'

You can read the Governor's full statement below:

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the first Louisiana death related to COVID-19 today. I have spoken with Mayor LaToya Cantrell, and we send our prayers and condolences to the family of the deceased. In addition, we now have 10 new presumptive positive cases bringing our total to 77.

Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant against the spread of this illness by taking care of ourselves and each other, avoiding going into public areas if you are sick, practicing social distancing and washing your hands frequently with soap and water.

This underscores the fact that those with underlying health issues are most at risk from the coronavirus. Those with compromised immune systems and are older should be taking extra precautions to avoid becoming affected with the coronavirus.

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