INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb has announced Indiana's first death due to the new coronavirus.
Holcomb said while they hoped and prayed this day wouldn't come, it did, and it will not end.
Dr. Ram Yeleti, Community Health Network's chief physician, identified the patient as over 60 years old with a history of health issues, falling into the high risk category.
The patient's significant other also contracted the virus and the two could not be together when the patient passed, according to Yeleti.
However, Yeleti says the patient did not die alone, as some people at the hospital stayed with the patient.
Anyone who has diabetes, cancer or lung disease is being urged to quarantine themselves.
Yeleti emphasized the importance of minimizing exposure, saying there will not be enough doctors to take care of all the people in need if this continues.
According to health officials, most people have mild symptoms and contain their illness in their home and don't spread it in their family.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kristina Box said the case could not be traced back to travel. Box said to stay home, and away from gatherings with more than 50 people. Box also said ISDH is working to address concerns about access to testing. Box said the tests can give a false sense of security.
It was emphasized that Hoosiers should be prepared for this coronavirus pandemic to last as long as it does, which could be anywhere from 30, 60, 90 days or more.
Gov. Holcomb ended the press conference by stating, "we are at war with COVID-19" putting it all in perspective as Indiana recorded it's first death.