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BERRIEN COUNTY — A second COVID-19 related death has been reported by the Berrien County Health Department.

As of 3 p.m. Monday, Berrien County is reporting 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and another death in a male over the age of 65 who had underlying medical conditions and had been hospitalized at Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph. This additional death brings the cumulative fatality total to two deaths in Berrien County due to COVID-19.

“This loss of life is tragic, and we send our deep condolences to the family,” said Berrien County Health Department Health Officer Nicki Britten. “We remain committed to slowing the spread of this virus to try to minimize the loss of life in our community during these unprecedented times.”

Other southwest Michigan counties also reported increased COVID-19 case numbers. Cass County has reported seven cases and one death, while Van Buren County has reported 16 cases and one death.

Given multiple recent COVID-19 cases associated with in-person funerals in Berrien County, health department officials urge families who have experienced a family death to plan a live-streamed funeral so people can attend remotely. This is a solution that allows for the closest immediate family members at the funeral service in person while keeping that gathering to under 10 people, while other people participate from home, officials said. Live chat can be included for anyone who may not have a webcam at home but still wants to be actively involved in the funeral service. Multimedia offerings can be provided to remote attendees, including the funeral program, written eulogy, and family photos and videos. Many funeral homes in Berrien County have already started to implement these remote viewing alternatives.

With many religious commemorations around the corner, the Berrien County Health Department also reminds residents to stay committed to social distancing and avoid in-person gatherings.

“While the way we celebrate traditions may be different this year, know that you are not alone,” said Health Officer Nicki Britten. “This is a challenging time and while we come from many different backgrounds, faiths and walks of life, we are uniquely bonded by this shared experience. One of the most loving things we can do for one another is to stay home. Knowing that COVID-19 can spread even before there are any symptoms of illness, it is so important to avoid any traditions that include family and friends or other people who do not live with you. These events include gathering for special worship services, Easter egg hunts, Passover meals or other events.”

The health department recommended several ways to stay safe in your worship during the COVID-19 pandemic including checking online and social media for virtual services, celebrating with family over video chat, cooking traditional foods at home and planning larger events when the pandemic is over.