Montgomery County Officials Announce First COVID-19 Related Death

For Immediate Release: Sunday, March 22, 2020

A woman in her 40s has become Montgomery County’s first COVID-19 related death.  Maryland Health Department officials report that the woman, who had an underlying medical condition, died suddenly on March 21.  Preliminary autopsy results included a positive test for COVID-19. This is the third COVID-19 related death reported in Maryland to date.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the first death of a Montgomery County resident in connection with this pandemic,” said County Executive Marc Elrich.  “Our sympathies go out to her family and friends.  Please know we are doing everything we can to slow the spread of this disease and we ask you to do the same. And please be kind to each other in these difficult times.” 

County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles continues to urge residents to take precautions that will help slow the spread of COVID-19.  “Our hearts go out to this woman’s family,” said Gayles.  “As more people across Maryland become ill with COVID-19, we continue to work with hospital partners and others to slow the spread of the virus.  It is extremely important that residents continue practices to try to stay well and slow the spread: stay home unless necessary and, when out, maintain at least six feet distance between you and others; and wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.”

For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit the County’s COVID-19 website and follow Montgomery County on Facebook @MontgomeryCountyInfo and Twitter @MontgomeryCoMD.

Media Contact:  Julie Parker, julie.parker@montgomerycountymd.gov, Mary Anderson, mary.anderson@montgomerycountymd.gov

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Release ID: 20-112
Media Contact: Julie Parker 240-777-6507, Mary Anderson 301 529-7669