The Porcupine Health Unit is reporting another death related to COVID-19.
It is a man in his 70s who was admitted to hospital. He was tested April 26.
It is the fifth virus-related death in the health unit's region, and the second connected to the outbreak at Timmins and District Hospital.
“It is with extreme sadness that I have the duty to report another COVID related death in the Porcupine Health Unit region," said Dr. Lianne Catton, PHU medical oficer of health, in a news release.
“Again, these losses are extremely difficult to announce and to hear as a community. Of course, the greatest loss is for the family and friends of this gentleman. We extend our deepest condolences to them during this time.”
According to the health unit, it is working closely with Timmins and District Hospital to investigate the outbreak.
The hospital has visitor restrictions in place, as well as enhanced PPE requirements and screening at all hospital entrances. All patients and staff who provide direct patient care or who are working in patient care areas must wear a mask while on site.
"We want to extend our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of this gentleman,” said Blaise MacNeil, TADH president and CEO. “The impact of any loss is felt greatly throughout our community and our thoughts remain with those affected.”
Catton said the death highlights the seriousness of what is happening in the health unit's communities.
"This is a stressful time for all. We need to continue to work together to protect our families, neighbours, coworkers, and communities to limit the spread of COVID-19. Stay home as much as possible. If you have to go out, practice physical distancing by keeping at least 2 metres or 6 feet distance between yourself and others. Please stay home if you’re feeling ill to help reduce the impact of COVID-19," she said.
To date, there have been 63 confirmed cases of the virus in the Timmins area. Of those, 48 are resolved and five people have died.
There are currently four institutional oubreaks in the city.
Along with Timmins and District Hospital, the outbreaks are still in effect at Spruce Hill Lodge and St. Mary's Gardens.
This week, an outbreak was declared at the Golden Manor after a resident who had no symptoms tested positive. That case was identified as part of the mandated testing for long-term care staff and residents.
There are COVID-19 Assessment centres in Timmins, Cochrane, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing, Smooth Rock Falls, Hearst and Hornepayne. They are by appointment only and you must be referred by your primary healthcare provider or the health unit.
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.
The health unit is doing expanded testing on people with milder symptoms for a limited time.
The expanded list of symptoms includes cough, fever, and difficulty breathing as well as sore throat/hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, muscle aches, runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and nausea or vomiting.
