In a recorded address to the city, Timmins Mayor George Pirie advised people not to panic and said he's looking for council's support to waive interest on taxes through the COVID-19 crisis.
The mayor's address was released a couple hours after the Porcupine Health Unit's update on the pandemic this afternoon.
There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the region. It is not known how many people have been tested.
"All results from testing in our area have, so far, been negative," said Dr. Lianne Catton, PHU Medical Officer of Health, in a news release. "We've had our COVID-19 Info-Line in operation since last week to screen for testing."
In the video, Pirie said he endorses the health unit's response to COVID-19.
He noted the virus is "very contagious".
"We know that it’ll impact 35 to 40 per cent of the community, we know those impacted, the vast majority, will be mild. For those, however, that are susceptible, it’s quite a severe disease, it’s quite a severe virus. The severity of it which, of course, will overwhelm the ability of our hospital and health teams to provide services as required, and that’s what this is all about. We have to be conscious of our duties as citizens within the City of Timmins to those that are most susceptible,” he said.
Pirie cautioned people not to panic, which he said is evidenced by hoarding, particularly toilet paper.
When council meets Tuesday, he said he'll be asking them to support waiving interest on taxes through this crisis.
“All in an effort to help our citizens and help the business communities, particularly the small business communities, that are going to suffer as restaurants are closed, as the hotels are closed, as, of course, you see their revenue base decline,” he said.
Since the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Canada, the health unit says it's been working to implement a local response.
People experiencing symptoms such as a fever, cough or difficulty breathing are asked to stay home and self isolate.
Catton is urging people who are immunocompromised over the age of 70 to self-isolate for 14 days.
"Older adults should stay at home as much as possible and get help from family and friends for essential errands," she said.
Pirie's full address is below:
