A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at Kirkland Lake Extendicare.
One staff member has tested positive. An outbreak is declared at a facility when one resident or staff member tests positive, according to the Timiskaming Health Unit.
The case is being investigated by public health and the person is in self-isolation.
“Risk to staff and residents is deemed low at this time,” said Dr. Glenn Corneil, acting medical officer of health and CEO for the Timiskaming Health Unit, in a news release.
“It’s important for everyone to keep their guards up regarding COVID-19 by continuing to follow all public health measures.”
The health unit, Blanche River Health, Ministry of Long-Term Care, and Ontario Health - North are working with the facility to make sure "all measures are in place to protect residents and staff," reads the announcement.
As of yesterday afternoon, the health unit had reported 83 cases of the virus since the start of the pandemic. Of those, 65 have been confirmed since the start of December. There are 23 known active cases.
There are assessment centres in the areas of Temiskaming Shores, Englehart, Kirkland Lake, and Temagami. Testing is by appointment only.
The health unit's COVID-19 line phone number is 705-647-4305 ext. 7 or 1-866-747-4305 ext. 7. It is open on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on weekends from 9 a.m. to noon.
