Kern County Public Health Services Department confirmed Friday the first COVID-19 related death in a Kern County resident.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the family and are saddened by this,” says Matt Constantine, Director of Kern County Public Health Services. “This is a tragic reminder of how serious COVID-19 can be and we encourage all residents to stay at home and practice social distancing when going out for essential services.”

There have been 40 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Kern County residents and one in a non-resident.

Kern County Public Health Services reminds residents to take the following protective measures:

• Stay at home except for essential needs.
• Wash hands with soap and water often.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. Follow package instructions for proper disinfecting.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay away from work, school or other people if you become sick.
• Those 65 and older or other high risk groups should self-isolate.