First Sevier County Resident Dies from COVID-19, Free Testing Available this Weekend

Health officials say one Sevier County resident has died as a result of COVID-19 infection. Free COVID-19 testing is available this weekend.

The Department of Health reports that out of 629 COVID-19 tests of Sevier County residents, 24 people tested positive. Of those positive tests, 22 people recovered from the infection and one person remains in quarantine. There is now one Sevier County COVID-19 fatality.

“We are saddened to report the first death in Sevier County due to COVID-19,” said Perrin Anderson, Assistant County Mayor for Governmental Affairs. “This is a somber reminder that everyone should follow the safety and health guidelines and that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.”

87,273 COVID-19 tests have been conducted statewide, with a total of 6,589 positive tests, including 142 residents who have died.

The Tennessee Department of Health, in conjunction with the Tennessee National Guard, are hosting a free COVID-19 drive-thru testing event in Sevier County from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2020 at Smokies Stadium, 3540 Line Drive in Kodak. Anyone who wants to be tested may come and be tested, regardless of where they live. Participants do not have to be symptomatic or have experienced other risk factors. There is no charge for the testing, and no appointment is necessary. Test results may be available within 72 hours after samples arrive at the lab, depending on volume.

Due to the large testing site opening at Smokies Stadium, there will not be testing at the Sevier County Health Department that day.

Click here to see a list of COVID-19 drive-thru testing sites across Tennessee this weekend.

Photo: Tennessee National Guard/Facebook