**PORCUPINE HEALTH UNIT NEWS RELEASE**

The Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) is reporting one new COVID-19 case. With this case, the PHU is conducting a COVID-19 outbreak assessment at the Extendicare in Timmins after one staff member without symptoms tested positive. While the individual is an employee at the facility, all infection prevention measures have been followed. This individual is in isolation at home, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Getting tested for COVID-19 can be overwhelming, especially if you or your children have symptoms and are not able to attend work, school, or childcare centre.  In addition to self-isolating while waiting for results, if the test result is negative but you still have symptoms, you will be required to continue to self-isolate until you are feeling well. Remember, even if your test result is negative, the test only tells you that you did not have an infection at the time of your test. COVID-19 is still circulating, and you may still have come in contact with it just before or after your test. Staying home when unwell will also prevent the spread of other infectious diseases in our communities.

Typically, workplaces and childcare centres require individuals to be symptom free for 24 hours prior to returning in addition to a negative test result.  While this can disrupt normal routines, it’s important that everyone continues to do their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19. For more self-isolation tips visit: https://bit.ly/3hvZpmf.

Our COVID-19 Information line is open today from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call the toll-free number, 1-800-461-1818 or the PHU office in your community. See our office listings for local contact numbers.

Filed under: Local News