The Malheur County Health Department (MCHD) is saddened to announce three new deaths, bringing the total to 41 Malheur County residents who have lost their lives with COVID-19. Our hearts go out to the family and friends who have lost a loved one.

Two deaths were in females in their 90s and one death was in a male in his 70s. Case investigators are diligently working on every case as they have dedicated their efforts to investigating 2,380 cases over the last eight months.

MCHD urges everyone to take precautions seriously to protect the spread of COVID-19 to the most vulnerable who are more likely to die. COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths across the United States are rising, including Idaho and Oregon communities near us. Idaho announced 96,503 cases today and Oregon announced 68,503 cases today. The CDC reports the Idaho rate of cases at a rate of 78.22 cases per 100,000 people and the Oregon rate at 29.87 cases per 100,000 people. Everyone in Malheur County needs to be especially cautious due to the increasing risks around us.

Especially during the holidays, if you choose to have small gatherings of up to six people between two households, please take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask, stay at least 6 feet apart, get tested, and wash your hands often. The more steps you take, the more you and the ones you love are protected against COVID-19.