KFLA Public Health has received lab confirmation of the first death related to COVID-19 in the KFLA region. A male in his 80s passed away on Jan. 9 at hospital.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the individual who died today,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, medical officer of health at KFLA Public Health. “This reinforces the reality of COVID-19 in our community and I urge individuals to do everything they can to prevent its spread, recognizing that many are at higher risk from the virus. Stay home as much as possible, avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, and practise physical distancing.”
The total number of confirmed positive COVID-19 patients in the KFL&A region continues to rise following the holiday season with 53 cases, as of Sunday morning. KFLA Public Health says if someone develops COVID-19 symptoms or has been in close contact with someone who has it, first self-isolate and then use Ontario’s Self-Assessment Tool or contact a health care provider to see if they need to seek further care.
The COVID-19 Assessment Centre at Beechgrove Complex and Lennox & Addington County General Westdale Campus are available to anyone who believes they have been exposed to the virus, and testing is available by appointment only.
KFLA Public Health added: In these stressful times, it is important that we remember that we are all in this together. We all have a role to play to protect others and to decrease the impact of COVID-19 on our health care system. Now is the time to practice physical distancing by staying at home, not visiting others, keeping a 2 metre distance from others, washing your hands often, and self-isolating, as required.
For the most up to date information visit www.Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or www.covid-19.ontario.ca.