Updated 5:42 p.m. April 8 to include updated hospitalization total from Public Health and comment from their director.

St. Lawrence County is up to 78 confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

The virus has been confirmed in Hammond, Ogdensburg, Oswegatchie, Macomb, Lisbon, Canton, Potsdam, Pierrepont, Colton, Hopkinton, Lawrence, Stockholm, Norfolk, Louisville, Brasher and Massena. There are six people hospitalized, Public Health said.

Earlier today, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center reported a COVID-19 patient died of the disease.

"The number of cases continues to rise at an alarming rate in St. Lawrence County and now we report our first death. As we mourn the loss of one of our residents, we hope we can prevent any others. COVID-19 may be spread even when someone does not feel sick or has very mild symptoms. It is imperative that all county residents follow the recommendations to practice social distancing, wear masks when in public or when out around others, and stay home unless going out for essential needs. This is a challenging time—the goal of these recommendations is to keep everyone safe and healthy," Public Health Director Dana McGuire said in a Wednesday evening email.

All confirmed cases are individuals residing in St. Lawrence County. They all have been isolated and are being monitored by the St. Lawrence County Public Health Department. The Public Health Department is also contacting anyone who may have been in contact with these individuals to determine whether quarantine or testing may be required, St. Lawrence County Emergency Services said.

COVID-19 symptoms include: cough, fever, trouble breathing and pneumonia. There is currently no vaccine to combat this virus, however everyone can help stop the spread by: practicing social distancing (at least 6 feet), avoid handshakes, wash hands with soap and water (at least 20 seconds) or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands, avoid close contact with people who are sick, cover your cough with a tissue and dispose of the tissue. Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces.

St. Lawrence County Emergency Services are accepting donations for Personal protective equipment. If you would like to donate anything, call the Emergency Operations Center at 315-229-3970 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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