SUDBURY -- A sixth person has died in the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) service area, marking the ninth COVID-19-related death in the northeast region.

"It is with great sadness that I must share that another life has been lost in the Porcupine Health Unit region," said Dr. Lianne Catton, PHU medical officer of health.

Health officials say a woman in her 60s has died after testing positive on April 13 and being admitted to hospital.

The woman is from outside of Timmins, in the area of Cochrane, Matheson, Iroquois Falls, Smooth Rock Falls and is believed to have been exposed through community spread.

Out of respect for her family, the health unit says no further information will be shared.

"On behalf of the health unit, I wish to offer my sincerest sympathies to all of her family and friends," said Dr. Catton.

Of the 65 confirmed cases of the virus, have been resolved.