SUDBURY -- After three months without a positive case in the Timiskaming District, Dr. Glenn Corneil, acting Medical Officer of Health for the Timiskaming Health Unit, has confirmed a new positive case of COVID-19. This marks the 19th positive case in this district.

"A female in her 30s, who is from out of district, has tested positive after being swabbed within the southern part of our district," the health unit said in a news release. "All necessary infection prevention and control measures were taken and contact tracing has begun. If you are identified as a close contact you will be notified. The patient is self-isolating while she recovers."

The Timiskaming District includes the communities of Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores Englehart, Elk Lake and Matachewan.

Corneil said even as the province reopens, COVID-19 remains a public health concern that everyone must help combat.

"Recently, we have seen new cases across the north, so it is not unexpected that we are announcing a new positive case of COVID-19 in our district," he said. "We must continue to practice all public health measures in order to reduce the spread and protect our communities.”

There are actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. Take these steps to reduce exposure to the virus and protect your health:

  • Wear a mask or face covering in indoor public spaces;
  • Maintain two metres or six feet of physical distance from others;
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
  • Sneeze and cough into your sleeve;
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; and,
  • If you have any COVID-19 related symptoms, get tested.

The last positive cases in the health unit's service area were confirmed on April 30 and involved residents and staff at two long-term care homes. They were resolved by May 13.

Of the 18 previously resolved cases in this district:

  • 67 per cent were female
  • 33 per cent were people between the ages of 20 and 29
  • 17 per cent of cases were people between 50 and 59
  • 6 were in long-term care homes
  • Zero COVID-related deaths

"Any future positive cases of COVID-19 in our district will be posted to our website, specific media releases may not be issued," the health unit said. "Additional information regarding COVID-19 is also available on our website."