Health officials in Knox County announced the second death of a COVID-19 patient in the county Tuesday, along with another 21 cases confirmed since yesterday.
The residents was a female in her 80’s.
WGIL had reported on a second COVID-19 death previously, which was rescinded after local officials asked the Illinois Department of Public Health to review if the death was actually related to COVID. IDPH determined it was not.
The positivity rate in Knox fell in the last week, from 4.9 % to 3.1 % despite a surge in cases, as the number of tests surged as well to over 2,000, double last week.
Public Health Administrator Michele Gabriele says that while many who get the virus show no serious affects, the threat is very real for those with compromised immune systems.
Gabriele also emphasizes the need to stay home from work when feeling ill.
She says the Health Department has seen outbreaks with growing numbers related to individuals going to work when ill.
Once that happens, co-workers infect each other and then bring the virus home to their families.
