**PORCUPINE HEALTH UNIT NEWS RELEASE**

DAILY COVID-19 UPDATE FOR MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2020

Yesterday, the PHU confirmed a third COVID-19 related death. The individual was in his 70s and admitted to Timmins and District Hospital, having tested positive for COVID-19 on April 5, 2020. His death was not related to an institutional outbreak. “On behalf of the PHU, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends,” said Dr. Lianne Catton, Medical Officer of Health.

The current number of confirmed cases is now 50. As of yesterday, over 1,141 COVID-19 tests have been completed in our region and 30 cases have been resolved.

The PHU and Timmins & District Hospital declared an COVID-19 outbreak yesterday at the hospital, following Ministry of Health guidelines after a patient tested positive for COVID-19. More details are available in the media release: http://ow.ly/3DoK50ziWRo.

The Porcupine Health Unit continues to promote the important measures that will help protect us all from COVID-19. “Continue to stay home as much as possible, avoid non-essential trips and maintain two metres between yourself and others when you do need to leave your home,” says Dr. Catton. “COVID-19 is circulating in our communities, and we all play a role in reducing tragic outcomes from this pandemic.”

There are COVID-19 Assessment Centres in Kapuskasing, Timmins, Cochrane, Iroquois Falls and Hornepayne. Please note that you require an appointment. Call your primary care provider or the PHU. Our COVID-19 Information line is open today from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call the toll-free number, 1-800-461-1818, or the PHU office in your community. See phu.fyi/offices for local contact numbers.

Stay home if you’re feeling ill. Wash your hands often. Stop the spread.

Stay home, stay well, stay kind. We’re all in this together.

Filed under: Local News