HANCOCK — A local resident has died of complications from COVID-19, becoming the second COVID-related fatality in the five-county area, the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department said Saturday.

The elderly person was an inpatient at a local hospital at the time of their death.

“Our heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to the family who has lost their loved one,” said Kate Beer, health officer at WUPHD. “This is a sad reminder of the seriousness of the COVID-19 threat. We must continue our prevention efforts, especially for the safety of our elderly and vulnerable populations.”

WUPHD reminds people to avoid close contact with people who are not part of their household, as even people with no or mild symptoms can spread the virus. Masking, washing hands and maintaining a 6-foot distance are steps that you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

WUPHD is working to coordinate its response with federal, state and local officials, as well as healthcare professionals, institutions, schools and community organizations. For more information, contact WUPHD at 482-7382. Updates are also available at wuphd.org.

A state informational hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days per week at 1-888-535-6136. Additional information on COVID-19 can be found at michigan.gov/coronavirus or cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov.