Johnson County reported its first death from the novel coronavirus on Monday, April 6, 2020. The streets of downtown Iowa City are void of the crowds seen last year. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

UPDATE: The Iowa Department of Public Health reported on Monday, April 6, 2020, an additional three deaths in the state from the novel coronavirus: an adult in Linn County, between the ages of 61 and 80, and two adults in Tama County, older than 81. Also, 78 additional positive cases were reported, for a total of 946 confirmed cases statewide.

IOWA CITY — Johnson County Public Health announced the county’s first death related to the coronavirus pandemic on Monday, April 6.

The person was between the ages of 61 and 80. No other information was released.

On Saturday, Regina High School in Iowa City announced that longtime coach and teacher John DeMarco, known as “Coach D,” had died of COVID-19 after being hospitalized. He was 73.

Johnson County reported the state’s first confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, in early March. Those were connected to a cruise in Egypt.

More: First Iowa cases of coronavirus confirmed

Another eight deaths in Iowa were reported on Sunday, April 5, bringing the state’s total to 22.

The Iowa Department of Public Health was also notified of 83 additional positive cases for a total of 868 positive cases so far.

There have been an additional 519 negative tests in Iowa for a total of 9,973 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.

Read about one family’s heartbreak from the coronavirus pandemic

Johnson County Public Health issued the following on Monday, April 6, 2020:

Johnson County Public Health (JCPH) has been notified of the first death associated with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Johnson County. The individual was an older adult (61-80 years).

“We want to express our sincerest condolences to this individual’s family and friends,” said Dave Koch, Johnson County Public Health Director. “This is a somber reminder of the seriousness of this virus. COVID-19 can cause serious health complications and death, especially among older adults and people with chronic health conditions, that’s why it’s crucial we all work together to prevent the spread of the illness.

“We must continue to emphasize how important it is to protect those who are most vulnerable to this virus and urge our community to stay home unless activities are absolutely essential. In doing so, you’re not only helping protect yourself, but also everyone’s family, friends, neighbors and fellow community members.”

Remember, the best way to protect yourself and prevent getting sick is to avoid being exposed in the first place. Staying home is the safest thing for everyone. Do not invite others – adults or children – into your home or yard. It is important to think about older adults, those with underlying health conditions and those health care workers who are caring for the sick. In order to protect them and ourselves from COVID-19, we must avoid gathering with anyone who does not live with us, no matter the number of people.

Thank you to all Johnson County residents who are doing your best to protect our most vulnerable friends, family and neighbors from this virus.

Information about COVID-19 in Johnson County is available at www.johnson-county.com/coronavirus.

Related: University of Iowa reports first COVID-19 case on campus