A second person died of COVID-19 in San Bernardino County Wednesday, a day after the first death was announced.
The 46-year-old man who died Wednesday had underlying medical conditions, according to county officials.
“This is a second sad reminder of the seriousness of this pandemic,” Dr. Erin Gustafson, San Bernardino County acting Health Officer said. “For all of us it emphasizes the importance of staying at home when we can and practicing good hygiene and social distancing.”
There are a total of 54 confirmed coronavirus cases in the county.
San Bernardino County officials addressed the public Wednesday morning, hoping to reassure residents one day after announcing the first coronavirus-related death in the county.
Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman began by announcing there is plenty of food and asked people to only buy what is needed.
“There is no shortage of food. … We’re in the warehouse capital of the West Coast here,” Hagman said.
It was also announced that the county’s first drive-thru testing center would be opening soon.
The tests would be administered by appointment only. Anyone wanting a test must first fill out a form to request an appointment.
More information on how to sign up will be made available on the county’s COVID-19 website at 8 a.m. Thursday, county health Director Trudy Raymundo said at the news conference.
A San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department deputy who earlier tested positive for COVID-19 is now symptom-free and recovering, Sheriff John McMahon said.
His department has seen fewer individuals booked into jail, presumably due to a small number of people committing crime on the street, the sheriff said.
He added that the agency will adjust its practices as needed during the outbreak.
On Tuesday, it was announced that a 50-year-old man with underlying health conditions was the first person to die from COVID-19 in San Bernardino County.
“Everyone should assume that anyone could have COVID-19 and unintentionally infect others. Therefore, we are appealing to everyone who possibly can to stay safe at home,” acting Health Officer Gustafson stated in Tuesday’s news release.
The numbers were expected to go up with more testing, Raymundo said.
The first confirmed COVID-19 case in San Bernardino County was reported on March 15.
On March 19, California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a state wide stay-at-home order with exceptions for acquiring vital goods or going to an essential job.
