HANCOCK — The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) received notification Thursday of the first local death attributed to COVID-19. Later investigation identified a number of places the man had visited prior to his death.

The individual was an elderly male Gogebic County resident with underlying health issues.

“Our heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to the family who have lost their loved one,” said Cathryn A. Beer, Health Officer at WUPHD. “This is a tragic reminder of how serious a threat COVID-19 is to our residents, especially the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. We need to work together to protect each other, support each other, and slow the spread of this disease.”

Friday evening, the Health Department issued a press release identifying locations the man had visited and the times they were visited. Residents who visited the sites may be at a higher risk for exposure as the virus can remain airborne for at least three hours and can remain on surfaces for at least three days.

The sites he visited are (all times are CST):

— Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, located at 108 S. Marquette Street in Ironwood, after 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 14.

— Northwest Wisconsin Cancer Center, located at 1615 Maple Lane in Ashland, Wis. on Wednesday, March 14.

— Bad River Casino, located at 73370 US-2, Odanah, Wis., after 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18.

— Brite Spot Connivence Store, located at 109 Silver Street, Hurley, Wis. after 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18.

The health department is advising anyone who visited one of these sites or has had close contact for a prolonged period with someone who visited one of these sites to be aware they have potentially been exposed to the coronavirus. Exposure does not mean an individual needs to be tested even if you have symptoms, but you should stay home if you feel ill.

If you have visited any of these sites or been exposed to someone who has and develop symptoms such as cough, fever, or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider.