Coronavirus: Dutchess County Reports 4th Death

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health confirmed the death of a fourth Dutchess County resident related to the new coronavirus. Officials said a 52-year-old man died Tuesday at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie.

The man was admitted to the hospital the previous week with shortness of breath. He was tested for COVID-19 which was confirmed positive. He had not been known to the health department until his hospitalization. Further specific information cannot be provided for privacy reasons.

“To the family and friends, we are heartbroken for your loss," Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said. "To the rest of the residents of Dutchess County, please take this to heart. Stay home. We all have a responsibility to stay healthy in order to protect the most vulnerable among us. As the death toll rises, remember that our smallest actions can be lifesaving, or life-threatening. The death of a fourth neighbor here in Dutchess serves as a harsh reminder that there is nowhere in our county untouched by coronavirus."

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Molinaro reminded residents to stay at home to limit community transmission of the virus. He said when it is absolutely necessary to go out, do so with caution and follow proper social distancing protocol from others by at least 6 feet and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.

There are now more than 396 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County, more than 2,300 tests have been administered, and four deaths related to COVID-19 have been reported.

Officials said these numbers are expected continue to increase which is why remaining at home is critical to stopping the spread of the new coronavirus and flattening the curve so as not to overwhelm the local healthcare system and ensure everyone can get the care they need.

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