A Markham woman in her 70s has died, marking York Region's first death related to COVID-19 and the fifth death in Ontario.
The Markham resident had returned from international travel Saturday, March 21 and died shortly thereafter.
“York Region extends their deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual,” said Dr. Karim Kurji, York Region’s medical officer of health in a news release. “This case speaks to the seriousness of the current situation and how as a community we need to continue working together to protect one another.”
This morning, York Region reported seven additional cases of COVID-19 earlier today, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 44.
Additionally, a COVID-19 outbreak at Markhaven Home for Seniors has now been declared, which means anyone with symptoms at the facility is assumed to be a positive case of COVID-19.
York Region confirmed yesterday that a woman in her 70s at the Markham long-term care centre has tested positive for COVID-19.
"The long-term care home had been experiencing a respiratory outbreak and York Region public health inspectors visited and ensured all proper protocols in place were being strictly adhered to. The tests were submitted as part of that protocol," Dr. Kurji said.
“We now cannot rule out local transmission in York Region,” added Dr. Kurji. "These unfortunate signals are indications of progression of the virus in our community. Local transmission is defined as individuals who did not have close contact with a travel-related case or any known case of COVID-19.
A Bradford West Gwillimbury woman in her 30s is in serious condition with a community-acquired COVID-19 case at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit confirmed yesterday.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect our community, York Region Public Health encourages residents to avoid crowds, stay at home when possible and practise social distancing and maintain good hand hygience.
Even with newly confirmed cases, these measures will help slow the spread of COVID-19, health officials say.
York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson extended condolences to family and friends of the Markham woman on behalf of York Regional Council and Regional Municipality of York.
"During these times of uncertainty and rapid change, this is an unfortunate and somber reminder of the seriousness of this situation. Now, more than ever, we need to follow the advice of public health to protect ourselves and our community," Emmerson said in a statement.
"In addition to offering our support to this individual’s family, I want to take the opportunity to re-assure residents (that) York Region is working diligently to help ensure the health and safety of our community," he said.
