SUDBURY -- A third person has died as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak at the Skyline-Lancelot Apartments in North Bay.
The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit said Monday the victim tested positive for COVID-19 with a preliminary positive result for a COVID-19 variant of concern.
“It is upsetting that we have had a third death," Dr. Jim Chirico, medical officer of health, said in a news release. "I am thinking of the individual’s family and friends … The loss of a loved one is never easy, and in these circumstances, it is devastating.
"Although we are seeing a decrease in the number of individuals testing positive for COVID-19 related to this outbreak, it does not mean it is over. By working together we can help prevent further spread and save a life.”
As of Monday afternoon, 15 of the 42 individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 have been confirmed to have the variant originating from South Africa. The variants are known to spread more easily than the original coronavirus.
"The best way for individuals to protect themselves against all strains of COVID-19 is to continue taking all COVID-19 precautions seriously and to continue with these measures," the release said.
If you think you may have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, first self-isolate and then use Ontario's Self-Assessment Tool to see if you need to seek testing or further care. If you need further assistance, call your health care provider or the health unit at 1-800-563-2808. If you have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, you should call 911 and mention your symptoms if you are able.
Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.
For more information, visit myhealthunit.ca/COVID-19.
