Nassau County officials announce first two coronavirus deaths

Oceanside, Rockville Centre hospitals lose first COVID-19 patients

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On Tuesday, officials announced the first two coronavirus deaths in Nassau County as the number of cases continues to grow.

An 83-year-old man from Queens died at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital in Oceanside and a 96-year-old man died at Mercy Medical Center in Rockville Centre on Monday, according to County Executive Laura Curran. It was not immediately clear which town the 96-year-old man was from, but he was a county resident. Curran also announced that the number of cases in Nassau grew to 139 on Tuesday.

MSSN officials announced in a news release that the 83-year-old patient did not travel to any high-risk countries and was not exposed to anyone who exhibited symptoms of the virus. He was admitted to MSSN on Feb. 26 and at the time he did not meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s criteria for COVID-19 testing.

According to MSSN officials, the unidentified patient had an existing chronic health condition and also exhibited new symptoms. He was eventually diagnosed with the coronavirus and the staff was unable to save him.

“We confirm his death with deep regret and sympathy for his family, many of whom are in self-isolation due to COVID-19 exposure,” the hospital’s statement read.

After the man was diagnosed, hospital staff took the appropriate treatment and protocols before his death, according to the news release. After the patient died, the hospital notified the county and state Department of Health.

MSSN officials confirmed that they are preparing with federal, state and county officials to meet the demand of the COVID-19 outbreak, and that there are other patients who may have the virus.

A request for comment from Mercy about the 96-year-old patient was not immediately returned.

This is a developing story. Check back to LIHerald.com for updates.