Hastings-Prince Edward Public Health has identified the first lab-confirmed case of COVID-19 locally.
The confirmation came Thursday from Public Health. They say the person returned from travel outside of Canada. “This individual developed symptoms of COVID-19, sought medical care immediately, and remains in self-isolation at home,” they say in a statement.
No details were provided by Public Health on the gender, age or where the person is lives in the region.
“This case confirms that COVID-19 is in our community, reinforcing the need for all individuals to engage in social distancing, remain home if sick, and implement regular infection control practices,” Public Health says.
The health unit says there are also “probable cases” of the virus in the community. They define that as someone with a fever (over 38 degrees Celcius) and/or cough and has travelled to an impacted area, or had close contact with a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case, or close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who has been to an impacted area.
“Testing is being prioritized based on Ontario Ministry of Health criteria and our local surveillance needs,” says Public Health’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Oglaza. “All cases are instructed to remain in self-isolation until they are no longer infectious as determined by Public Health.”