MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Department of Health on Saturday confirmed the state’s first death due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.

Officials say a Ramsey County resident in their 80s died on Thursday

Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said the death underscores the importance of protecting the most vulnerable residents in the state, especially those over 65 and people with underlying health conditions.

“We’ve all seen reports of outbreak-related deaths in other states and countries, but this Minnesota death reminds us how important it is to continue working to protect each other during this outbreak,” Malcolm said in a statement.

The state Department on Health on Friday said 115 people have tested positive for the virus. The state reported 26 new cases, which was up from 89 on Thursday,

For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover.

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