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Coronavirus has claimed another local life, health officials reported early Friday evening.

“It is with great sadness that the City of Port Arthur Health Department (PAHD) is reporting the fifth COVID-19 related death of a resident of Port Arthur,” a statement read.

Authorities said the deceased is an African American female between the age range of 80-85.

“We emphasize again that COVID-19 is a very serious disease,” a PAHD statement reads. “While 80 percent of individuals who contract COVID-19 will have mild to moderate symptoms and fully recover, they may spread the disease to people who are at high risk.”

On Wednesday, the Health Department reported two Port Arthur residents had become the latest tested positive for COVID-19. Both individuals are females between the age range of 35-40.

Their confirmations brought the total to sixty-six individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 in Port Arthur.

The elderly and people with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are at a much higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19.

Health officials strongly advise at-risk individuals to minimize contact with others who are ill, and practice social distancing.