The latest confirmed COVID-19 case in the Porcupine Health Unit area works at an Iroquois Falls long-term care home.
The 68th confirmed case of the virus was reported yesterday. It is a man in his 20s in the area of Cochrane, Matheson, Iroquois Falls, and Smooth Rock Falls. He was tested July 9 and is in self-isolation.
While investigation is ongoing, the health unit has confirmed the individual works at South Centennial Manor Long-Term Care Home and was identified through the enhanced screening of employees and residents. A July 13 bulletin says the risk of transmission in the facility is deemed low at this time.
According to the health unit, no residents or other staff members have "been identified as having symptoms". Yesterday's test is the only positive one received so far.
"While receiving a report of a positive result in any staff or resident of a long term care home is always concerning, the outbreak assessment and protocols have begun and we will continue to work with the team at South Centennial Manor to monitor the situation," said PHU medical officer of health Dr. Lianne Catton in a news release.
An outbreak has not been declared at the home.
According to Ministry guidelines, outbreaks are declared when there is a lab-confirmed case in a resident or staff member at the home.
"In consultation with the local public health unit, it may not be necessary to declare an outbreak if a new admissions or readmission tests positive if they have been in isolation under contact and droplet precautions since entering the home," reads the government guidelines.
Some of the measures Catton said long-term care homes have adopted to reduce the spread of COVID-19 include wearing personal protective equipment, physical distancing among staff, and ongoing monitoring of staff and residents.
"This is an important reminder of the need for all community members to remain committed to the measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Physical distancing, handwashing, wearing a mask inside public spaces, and staying home when unwell will help reduce the risk of spread in our communities," said Catton.
Of the confirmed cases in the Porcupine Health Unit region, 59 are resolved and eight people have died. There is one known active case of the virus.
COVID-19 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 weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It can be reached at 705-267-1181 or 1-800-461-1818.
