Two more coronavirus-related deaths confirmed in Ontario

Mar 27 2020, 1:41 pm

Two more deaths related to COVID-19 have been confirmed in Ontario.

These cases now mark the second and third death in the region, the Durham Region Health Department confirmed on Thursday.

The second individual is a male in his 80s, who had a history of travel. He was hospitalized at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on March 23 and passed away on March 24.

The third individual is a male in his 40s who had no history of travel. He was hospitalized at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on March 19 and passed away on March 25.

“We are truly saddened to learn of these two additional deaths in our community,” Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health, said. “Our sincere condolences are extended to the families of these two individuals and our thoughts are with them during this very difficult time.

Kyle noted that the third case had no known travel history, indicating that community spread is occurring.

“We implore everyone to be especially vigilant and continue to encourage all area residents to take the practice of social and physical distancing very seriously. Please take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others in our community. Everyone’s help is urgently needed, and we have to work together to ensure community safety,” he said.

The news was also confirmed by assistant Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Barbra Yaffe during a press conference on Thursday. She confirmed one death in Ottawa and three in Toronto.

The Durham Health Department stressed to residents the necessity of physical distancing which is “one of the best ways to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.”

As of March 26, there are 835 confirmed cases in Ontario with 15 deceased and eight recovered.

Clarrie FeinsteinClarrie Feinstein

+ News
+ Coronavirus