Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reporting the first COVID-19 related death in its catchment area of Peterborough city and county, Curve Lake, and Hiawatha.
According to PPH, a man in late 60s who had acquired COVID-19 via a travel exposure died Sunday (April 12) at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC).
“Losing a loved one is among the most tragic things anyone can experience … our thoughts go out to this resident’s family and friends at this difficult time,” says Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Peterborough’s Medical Officer of Health.
“This tragic passing in our community reminds all of us that we must take decisive action to stay home as much as possible. By doing so, we will reduce the risk of transmission to those in our community who are vulnerable and slow the spread of COVID-19 to save lives.”
PRHC president and CEO Peter McLaughlin also extends his condolences to the man’s family while assuring the public front-line hospital staff remain committed to providing the best possible care during the pandemic crisis.
“The health care professionals at PRHC provide care for patients with respiratory illness every day and they have the training and knowledge necessary to care for patients with COVID-19,” says Dr. McLaughlin.
“These are extraordinary times for our community, our country and the world. We will continue to take strong measures at PRHC to protect our patients, staff and community. Please continue to be safe, be calm and be kind to each other. We are in this together.”
Physical distancing remains critical to reducing in-person interactions and keeping ourselves, and each other, safe during this unprecedented time. PPH reminds residents to stay home if sick or returning to Canada from abroad for 14 days. It is also asking people not to travel to their cottages or secondary residences that could increase the spread the virus to smaller communities.
It is strongly recommended that residents stay home as much as possible, only making trips for essential reasons such as groceries, medications, health care or exercise alone, with a pet or with someone from their household.
People with health-related questions about COVID-19 are encouraged to call Peterborough Public Health at 705-743-1000 or email covid19@peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
Residents can also take the online self-assessment available at at covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/.
