Santa Cruz County health officials on Tuesday morning announced the second death of a county resident who tested positive for COVID-19.
The man in his late 60s died early Tuesday. He was hospitalized on April 9 with symptoms including fever, cough and fatigue.
He had an underlying health condition, county officials said.
“This man was a father and grandfather and I want to express my deepest sympathies to his family,” Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gail Newel said. “This second death shows how serious the virus is and how necessary it is for our community to continue to shelter in place.”
He lived in South County and was employed by a local university, officials said. The Public Health Division determined that this case was community-acquired.
Santa Cruz County now has 91 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Those aged 65 and older and with underlying health conditions are the most at risk.
