SUDBURY -- Public health officials confirmed late Tuesday night the first positive case of COVID-19 in the Algoma region. 

Algoma Public Health says the patient is a woman in her 50s  who returned to the area on March 15 from the United States. The next day, she notified public health after developing respiratory symptoms.

APH facilitated EMS transportation to Sault Area Hospital for testing the same day she called, on March 16. EMS and hospital staff took all necessary infection prevention and control precautions.

Following testing, the patient was discharged home where she remains in self-isolation, following public health guidance and monitoring.

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Any Algoma resident who flew on Delta 4212 into Chippewa County International Airport, on the Michigan side of the border, on March 15 at approximately 10:45 p.m. is asked to contact Algoma Public Health or their local public health authority.

"Given the transmission of the virus around the world, having a confirmed case in our region is not unexpected," said Dr. Jennifer Loo, Associate Medical Officer of Health. "Across Algoma communities, our health professionals and partners across all sectors have been preparing for COVID-19. Now, more than ever, we are asking all Algoma citizens to help prevent the spread of this virus, especially through the use of social distancing measures." 

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Health continue to advise all travellers to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving back in Canada from international travel.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

To protect loved ones and those around them, Algoma residents who are feeling sick should stay home until they no longer have any symptoms.

If you are feeling unwell and have recently returned from travel:

  • Take a self-assessment online using the Ministry of Health self-assessment tool
  • Call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000
  • Consult your family physician or nurse practitioner
  • Call Algoma Public Health at 705-759-5404 or TF 1-866-892-0172, ext. 5404
  • If you need immediate medical assistance, please call 911, and tell first responders about your symptoms and any recent travel, so that appropriate precautions can be put in place.

To help protect the capacity of our Algoma clinics and hospitals so that they can continue to care for those who need urgent treatment every day, please understand that COVID-19 testing is not recommended or appropriate for everyone.

COVID-19 testing is not helpful if you are not sick and have no symptoms.

Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Christian Provenzano offers the following statement on the first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Algoma:

"This is understandably a period of uncertainty and concern for members of our community. I remain in close communication with public health professionals and community partners regarding the local situation. Our local leadership is working diligently and cooperatively to provide a response that protects the health and safety of residents.

The city is continuing to follow the guidance of public health professionals, and I urge community members to do the same. Simple measures such as using proper handwashing techniques, covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm, self-isolating if you do not feel well and avoiding social gatherings can make a significant difference in slowing the spread of COVID-19. I encourage the entire community to practice social distancing.

We are fortunate to live in a caring community, and many people – whether it be in a professional or personal capacity – are doing what they can to help others. I want to express gratitude for their efforts, and in particular I want to recognize all of the tremendous people in the health care sector who have been working incredibly hard the past few weeks, and who will be working even harder over the coming weeks. The community is grateful for their service."