Georgia’s youngest COVID-19 death is 7-year-old with no underlying conditions
The child fell ill after attending a Savannah church where he was in contact with two elderly residents who also were infected and died from the virus, the local NBC affiliate reported.
“This child’s death is absolutely tragic, and we are praying for their loved ones in this difficult time,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement.
The boy, who authorities have not identified, suffered a seizure while showering and was rushed to a hospital, where he later was pronounced dead, according to the station.
A small number of COVID-19 patients exhibit neurological problems like stroke and seizures, an April report in The New York Times found.
Dr. Lawton Davis, the health director of the local Georgia district, described the death as “heartbreaking” and stressed the need for everyone to take the virus seriously.
“We know that older individuals and those with underlying conditions are at higher risk of complications, but this is a disease everyone should take seriously,” Davis said.
“Please watch out for each other, wear a mask in public, wash your hands often, and stay home if you’re sick.
“A community-wide crisis demands a community-wide response, and we all must do our part to keep each other safe,” he added.
