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BERRIEN COUNTY — A Berrien County resident has died after contracting the COVID-19 virus.

Monday, the Berrien County Health Department announced the first death in the county due to COVID-19. The victim was a man in his 70s, with serious underlying health conditions.

“On behalf of the entire Spectrum Health Lakeland team, our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this individual,” said Loren B. Hamel, president of Spectrum Health Lakeland. “We realize this is difficult news for our community, and these are unprecedented and uncertain times for all. We have the deepest compassion for our friends and neighbors who fall sick, and for our team members who remain committed to care for our COVID-19 patients and fight this virus together.”

As of 3 p.m. Monday, Berrien County had 32 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Neighboring counties Cass County and Van Buren County each reported four cases. Monday’s death was the first reported in any of the three counties.

“This is a tragic loss of life, and we share our heartfelt condolences with the family,” said Nicki Britten, health officer of the Berrien County Health Department. “Protecting the health of our community and slowing the spread of COVID-19 is our top priority.”

Statewide, there have been 6,498 cases and 184 reported deaths as a result of the virus. Across the U.S., the number of confirmed cases has risen to 140,904, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To help slow the spread of COVID-19, Britten urged the continuation of social distancing under the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

All residents are encouraged to keep following the basic prevention steps to prevent the spread of the virus:

• Wash hands often with soap and water
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Cover mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid shaking hands
• Keep at least 6 feet apart from others when in public
• Avoid contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when sick