SUDBURY -- The Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) reported the district’s ninth COVID-19 related death on Aug. 29 and say the man in his 70s was admitted to the Timmins and District Hospital (TADH) after testing positive last month.

The man was tested on July 19 and PHU confirmed the case was not related to an institutional outbreak.

“It is with great sadness that I report that we have had a ninth death related to complications of their infection of COVID-19 in the Porcupine Health Unit region,” said Dr. Lianne Catton, PHU Medical Officer of Health in an Aug. 29 media release.

“On behalf of the PHU, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”

The health unit will not share any further information out of respect for the family.

“Our thoughts are with family and friends during this difficult time. On behalf of the Timmins and District Hospital, we wish to extend our deepest condolences,” stated Kate Fyfe, President and Chief Executive Officer at TADH.

If you think you may have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it, first self isolate and seek testing through one of the assessment centres across Ontario.

You can also call the Porcupine Health Unit at 705-267-1181 or toll-free at 1-800-461-1818.