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Thursday, March 12, 2020

ATLANTA, GA (WRDW/WAGT) -- Gov. Brian Kemp held a news conference to discuss the first confirmed death from coronavirus in Georgia and the state's plans moving forward.

According to a statement, Kemp said the victim was a 67-year-old male that was hospitalized at WellStar Kennestone since testing positive for COVID-19 on March 7.

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The victim also had an underlying medical issue.

"Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the family and loved ones of this individual during this incredibly difficult time," said Governor Kemp. "I know the medical professionals on site did everything that they could, and I greatly appreciate their efforts. As our state continues to address this pandemic, I urge Georgians to remain calm and support their neighbors and communities. We are in this fight together."

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Kemp's office has not said which county the victim resided in.

In a news conference on Thursday, Kemp addressed the current updates of the coronavirus crisis in Georgia. He specifically had a message for the population that may have a higher risk of contracting the virus.

"We must take extra care around elderly individuals, people with health issues and those who have a suppressed immune system," Kemp said. "We need to dramatically limit their exposure to the public for the foreseeable future. Health officials now are telling us that these vulnerable populations need to avoid mass gatherings in locations with high traffic counts of people, even faith-based services or events."

Kemp also wanted to reach out and issue a call to action for community leaders, educational leaders and child care providers across the state.

"If you feel it is prudent, you should consider closing daycares, schools or school districts as early as tomorrow through the next two weeks," Kemp added. "In addition, county and local governments should consider what closures might be appropriate that do not affect essential services."

He emphasized, "This is not a mandate."

At this time, Kemp is not shutting down the state government or the capital. He is immediately suspending nonessential travel and implementing teleworking policies for most state employees because "it's the right thing to do."

According to Kemp, new committees will be created to help combat the different areas the coronavirus can affect such as homelessness, primary care physicians and economic and financial impacts.

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