Columbiana County Reports First Death from COVID-19

LISBON, OHIO — The first death from COVID-19 in Columbiana County was reported Thursday morning by the county health department.

According to spokeswoman Laura Fauss, the victim was an older resident with an underlying health condition who had been hospitalized since being tested last week. She did not elaborate on the underlying condition, the person’s gender, place of residence or hospital involved.

The announcement of the death was made in coordination between the county health departments and health departments in the cities of East Liverpool and Salem. 

“This resident was a neighbor, a relative and friend; and with a tight knit community like ours, one loss is too many. Let this be a reminder that the disease is here, and that the time for action is now. It is essential that you remain in your homes, if you must go into public, continue to practice social distancing and standard disease prevention precautions,” the release reported.

It continued, “This disease has changed the world around us in many ways, but local public health personnel, medical providers and hospitals will continue to work together on behalf of our Columbiana County residents to treat all individuals affected by this disease.”

The health department has not responded to a request for additional information, having noted the release was the only communication it would be offering at this time due to time limitations on its staff. 

As of the last report, Wednesday afternoon, Columbiana County has four patients undergoing treatment for COVID-19.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.