Three of the deaths happened at Haywood Regional Medical Center. Of these, two were between the ages of 70-75, and one was between the ages of 80-85. All three had COVID-19 listed as an underlying cause of death (disease or injury leading to the events resulting in death).

One death, which occurred at Haywood Nursing and Rehab, was an individual between the ages of 80-85 who had COVID listed as an underlying condition of death (disease or injury leading to the events resulting in death).

Another death, which occurred at Autumn Care, was an individual between the ages of 85-90. COVID-19 was listed as a significant condition contributing to death on the death certificate.

To protect the families’ privacy, no further information about the patients will be released.

“We at Haywood County Health and Human Services extend our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones during this time of loss,” said Interim Health Director Garron Bradish. “COVID-19 is a serious and sometimes deadly illness, and case numbers remain high in our community.  We ask everyone to consider the pain and loss this virus can bring with it and do everything you can to help prevent its spread.”

“We urge everyone to be vigilant about masking and social distancing any time you’re going to be around anyone who doesn’t live in your household. Wash your hands regularly, and stay home if you’re not feeling well. Now, more than ever, we need everyone in the community using every tool in the intervention toolbox to help slow the spread,” said Bradish.

Haywood County Sheriff's Department reported that an inmate in the jail tested postiive for COVID-19. The individual is currently in isolation and all established COVID-19 safety and security protocols are in place and being followed. All protocols are within the recommended guidelines set forth from the CDC and the Haywood County HHS/Public Health Division and Haywood County Health Director, Dr. Mark Jaben.

“Since March 2020, due to COVID-19, we have updated our intake procedures and increased the awareness of our detention officers. This all in an effort to maintain the safety and security of the Haywood County Detention Center,” said Major Jason Smiley.

“Over the past 11 months, we have been fortunate that after processing approximately 4,000 individuals into the detention center, this is the first positive case of COVID-19 among detainees. This is attributed to the vigilant professionalism and strong attention to detail by our detention center staff,” said Sheriff Greg Christopher.

To stay up to date on COVID-19 in Haywood County visit https://www.haywoodcountync.gov/684/Coronavirus-Covid-19-Information

If you have questions about COVID-19 and would like to speak to local Public Health staff, call 828-356-2019, M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.