A second Kern County resident has passed away due to the COVID-19. Kern County Public Health Services Department has received confirmation of the second COVID-19 related death in a Kern County resident. There have been 173 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Kern County residents and three in non-residents and two deaths.
“We offer our condolences to the family and are thoughts are with them during this tragic time,” says Matt Constantine, Director of Kern County Public Health Services. “We encourage all residents to stay at home and practice social distancing when going out for essential services.”
Kern County Public Health Services recommends the following protective measures:
 Stay at home except for essential needs.
 Wash hands with soap and water often.
 Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. Follow package instructions for proper disinfecting.
 Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
 Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.
 Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
 Stay away from work, school or other people if you become sick.
 Those 65 and older or other high risk groups should self-isolate.
Kern County Public Health continues to work with local health care providers and has plans in place to inform and protect all residents, limit exposures to any new cases if identified, and address concerns as they arise. Visit www.kernpublichealth.com for current information and guidance.