First COVID-19 Related Death Reported by Huron Perth Public Health

Monday, 30 March 2020 at 13:31

A man in his 60's getting care at the hospital in Stratford has died from COVID-19 symptoms. HPPH had seven new cases of COVID-19 confirmed over the weekend, including a case at Hillside Manor, a long term care home near Sebringville.

HURON/PERTH COUNTY - The first COVID-19 related death from Huron Perth Public Health has been confirmed today.

The man in his 60's had tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month and was being treated at the hospital in Stratford.
Health Unit staff began their investigation immediately upon being notified of the man’s diagnosis and have communicated with his close contacts. All personal contacts have been in self-isolation since and continue to be monitored.

Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth Dr. Miriam Klassen says this is tragic news.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of this man’s passing and extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends. We ask everyone to recognize the seriousness of this virus and how important it is to limit its spread."

President and CEO for HPHA Andrew Williams says the entire Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance team is saddened by this loss and extends heartfelt condolences to the patient’s family and loved ones.

“In facing this tragic reality, the resolve of the HPHA Team to continue to provide compassionate and accountable care to all in need as we address this pandemic together is only strengthened."

Huron Perth Public Health received lab confirmation of seven new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, bringing the confirmed number of positive cases to nine in Huron and Perth as of Monday, March 30.

Among the new cases are the first confirmed positive case in a long-term care home in Perth County at Hillside Manor near Sebringville. HPPH is working with the facility to perform thorough contact tracing and provide further infection control support. The resident is in self isolation and other residents who have been in close contact with the case have also been isolated. Dr. Klassen says they are doing everything they can to protect seniors.

“Older adults are more at risk for severe illness due to COVID-19 and we as a community must do all we can to protect our vulnerable residents.”