SUDBURY -- A woman in her 80s has now been confirmed to have COVID-19 at St. Joseph's Villa in Sudbury following an outbreak that was declared on Sunday.
All 64 residents on the first floor of the villa were tested for the virus after an employee was confirmed positive on April 19 and only one test result has come back positive so far.
Both the staff member and the resident are in isolation following recommendations from public health.
President and CEO Jo-Anne Palkovits said the resident is doing well and has no symptoms so far.
Palkovits is also reminding everyone that St. Joseph's Health Centre is doing everything they can to keep everyone safe.
"We understand this is very worrisome news to hear; however, we want to reassure our staff, residents and their families that the risk of infection throughout our facility remains low," said Palkovits in a media release. "The safety of our residents, and staff, remains our number one priority."
Several precautionary measures have taken place at the facility already to ensure the safety of patients, residents and staff.
Officials say that strict physical distancing guidelines are in place and being followed. Group activities have been discontinued and residents are eating meals in their rooms. COVID-19 Screening takes place at the beginning and end of staff shifts, including temperature checks. Masks, gowns, goggles and gloves are being worn. Residents are assessed three times a day for symptoms.
Admissions to St. Joseph's Villa have been put on hold and visitors restrictions remain in effect.
"We continue to work very closely with St. Joseph's Health Centre to manage the outbreak and to ensure additional control measures are put in place to limit the spread of infection," said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, medical officer of health with Public Health Sudbury & Districts.
This new case brings the total confirmed cases in the public health service area to 46.
