The local COVID-19 cases are all connected to travel, according to Porcupine Health Unit Medical Officer of Health Dr. Lianne Catton.
Yesterday, two new cases of the virus were confirmed in the health unit's area — a Timmins woman in her 40s, and a Cochrane woman in her 50s. There are currently six positive cases in the health unit's coverage areaa, five in Timmins and one in Cochrane.
“All cases at this time have links to international travel, however we do continue to ask people to assume that it is circulating. We continue regular contact with the cases and those close contacts that have been identified through the investigation process, which is still ongoing in some cases,” said Catton in the daily health table update.
As of March 26, the health unit is aware of 195 COVID-19 tests submitted locally. There are six positive cases, 130 negative tests and they are waiting for the results of 59.
“The Porcupine Health Unit COVID information line continues to be extremely busy responding to your calls, concerns and requests. We are working on increasing our hours into the early evening and will update this once available,” she said, adding it will also be open this weekend from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough and/shortness of breath. If you are experiencing them call the PHU COVID-19 Information Line at 1-800-461-1818 ext. 2919. Right now, it's available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you leave a message, staff will get back to you within 24 hours.
The COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Timmins is located at the Intrepid Centre at the Canadian Mental Health Association's branch on Second Avenue.
It is by appointment only, with people needing a referral from their doctor, Porcupine Health Unit or Telehealth. Find out what you need to know about how to access it here.
