Timmins, Ontario — The Porcupine Health Unit (PHU), together with the Timmins and District Hospital (TADH), has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at TADH after one patient tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Dr. Lianne Catton, Medical Officer of Health, states, “We’re declaring this COVID–19 outbreak at TADH as per the Ministry of Health guidelines.”
"As a result of the enhanced surveillance measures, our staff quickly identified the change in patient symptoms and immediately completed testing and moved the patient to an isolated location," stated Blaise MacNeil, President and CEO at the TADH. "Our pandemic planning process ensures we are ready to quickly respond to any changes required throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our focus remains on doing everything we can to ensure the continued safety of our patients and staff."
Access to the affected unit has been restricted and enhanced surveillance continues throughout the hospital. TADH continues to support the Porcupine Health Unit as they reach out to any potential contacts. To safeguard the privacy of patients, staff and their families, TADH will not comment on the current status of any patients or staff in hospital.
The control measures that have been put in place to date include the restriction of visitors and volunteer programs, enhanced PPE requirements and active screening at all Hospital entrances. To ensure the safety of all those attending the Timmins and District Hospital, all patients and staff who provide direct patient care or work in patient care areas are required wear a mask while on site.
As the investigation proceeds, the PHU and TADH will continue to work together to ensure all precautions and procedures are in place to protect staff and patients.
If you think you may have COVID–19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has, first self-isolate and then use Ontario’s Self-Assessment Tool (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/) to see if you need to seek further care. Contact your primary care provider or the Porcupine Health Unit for referral to an Assessment Centre as appropriate.
The Ontario Government is asking all Ontarians to stay home unless absolutely necessary for essential reasons, such as accessing health care services, shopping for groceries, picking up medication, walking pets when required, or supporting vulnerable community members with meeting essential needs. If you must leave your home, stay at least two (2) metres apart from others.
If you need further assistance, call TeleHealth Ontario at 1–866–797–0000 or your health care provider. You can also call the Porcupine Health Unit at 705–267–1181 or toll-free 1–800–461–1818.
Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID–19. (covid-19.Ontario.ca)
For further information, please contact:
Kaileigh Russell
Communications Specialist
Timmins and District Hospital
705-267-6331
krussell@tadh.com
Gary Schelling
Communications Specialist
Porcupine Health Unit
705-267-1181, ext. 2413
gary.schelling@porcupinehu.on.ca
