There's been an eighth death related to COVID-19 in the Timmins area.
According to the Porcupine Health Unit, a woman in her 90s who tested positive April 20 has died. It is the sixth death in Timmins related to the virus since the start of the pandemic, and the eighth in the health unit's region.
The case was related to the Timmins and District Hospital outbreak, which was declared over May 11. This is the fourth death related to the outbreak.
Out of respect for the family, the health unit says no further information will be shared.
“On behalf of the health unit, we offer our deepest sympathies to all of her family and friends,” said PHU medical officer of health Dr. Lianne Catton in a news release.
Timmins and District Hospital president and CAO Blaise MacNeil extends his condolences to family and friends impacted by the loss.
“The impact of any loss is felt greatly throughout our community and our thoughts remain with all those affected," said MacNeil in the news release.
At the the hospital, visitor restrictions are still in effect, there are personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and active screening at all entrances.
"All patients and staff who provide direct patient care, or who work in patient care areas are required to wear a mask while on site. We would like to encourage any person attending TADH to bring their own face covering while attending for appointments or to receive medical care," reads the health unit update.
To date in Timmins there have been 65 confirmed cases. Of those, there are 57 resolved cases and eight people have died. There are no active cases in the health unit's region. The last positive test was reported May 10.
Catton said the news of another virus-related death is a reminder to stay committed to the steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19 so other families don't experience such a tremendous loss.
“We have a shared responsibility to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19. We all have a role to play," she said.
You should wash your hands frequently, refrain from touching your face, wear a mask when physical distancing isn't possible, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue, and stay home if you're not well.
Testing is open to anyone who feels they need to be tested, even if you don't have symptoms. To access testing, call your health care provider or the health unit.
There are COVID-19 assessment centres in Timmins, Cochrane, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing, Smooth Rock Falls, Hearst and Hornepayne.
The PHU COVID-19 hotline is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can be reached at 705-267-1181 or 1-800-461-1818.
