Health officials confirm second COVID-19 death,199 cases in Kern

April 3, 2020 /

The Kern County Public Health Department confirmed Friday morning a second COVID-19 death in Kern County.

“We offer our condolences to the family and are thoughts are with them during this tragic time,” says Matt Constantine, Director of Kern County Public Health Services. “We encourage all residents to stay at home and practice social distancing when going out for essential services.”

The second death comes exactly one week after Delano resident Susie Garcia passed Friday, March 27. Health officials also confirmed Friday afternoon 199 cases of COVID-19 in Kern.

Most cases in Kern County fall in the 18 to 49 age group with 96 cases. Three individuals between the ages of 0-17 have tested positive; 60 individuals between the ages of 50 to 64; and 35 people age 65 and above have been confirmed.

The total number of cases includes five non-residents who tested positive. While 2,498 tests have come back negative, there are still 1,807 tests pending.

The county is divided into five regions: Valley, Bakersfield West, Bakersfield East, Mountain, and desert. Thirty-six cases have been identified in the Valley region, 86 cases in the Bakersfield West region, 60 cases in the Bakersfield East region, seven cases in the Mountain region, and five case in the Desert region.

Kern County Public Health Services recommends 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.

Elizabeth Sanchez

Elizabeth Sanchez is the program associate for South Kern Sol. She can be reached at elizabeth@southkernsol.org.