The Hamilton County Health Department announced Monday that the number of COVID-19 related deaths among county residents has risen to 68.
The five new victims were all over 60 years old with underlying health conditions, according to a news release from the health department. The deaths include: three white, non-Hispanic males over 81; one black, non-Hispanic male, 61-70 years old; and one white, female over 81.
"We extend our condolences to these families, we know this is a tough time," Health Department Administrator Becky Barnes said in a statement. "We remind everyone how important it is to adhere to isolation and quarantine orders issued by the health department and we continue to urge everyone to wear masks and practice safe distancing."
Aug. 12-Aug.19 was one of the deadliest weeks for the virus in Hamilton County so far with deaths totaling seven, the Times Free Press reported.