SAULT STE. MARIE -- Officials with the Algoma Public Health Unit are confirming a new case of COVID-19.

A staff member at the Mauno Kaihla Koti (MKK) building of the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) is reportedly the 28th case of the novel coronavirus in the Algoma District.

"Based on careful investigation of all available information, the risk of exposure for residents and staff is low," said an update posted on the facility's website. "Nonetheless, OFRA is putting additional precautionary measures in place until further test results are reported."

The statement goes on to say that all residents are being monitored for symptoms daily.

This is the region's first case of COVID-19 in more than a month. All of the previous 27 positive COVID-19 cases in the Algoma District were resolved as of July 26 and there have been no COVID-related deaths in this district.

It is unknown how the individual in question was exposed to the virus. As a result, health officials are stressing caution, saying this is evidence of community spread in the Sault Ste. Marie area.