York Region's public health unit is withdrawing its confirmation of the first community-acquired COVID-19 case in the region, which was an error resulting from inaccurate information, a regional spokesperson said.
The confirmed case, reported as the region's 35th on its dedicated website last night as "local transmission" in Vaughan is actually for a resident within the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, according to Patrick Casey, director of corporate communications.
"Our public health team was provided with out-of-date information," he said. "That case has been removed from our site and we are no longer confirming the first evidence of local transmission in the community."
The region is reporting this morning that a woman in her 70s at Markhaven Home For Seniors in Markham 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," medical officer of health Dr. Karim Kurji said in a statement today.
The investigation as to how the virus was transmitted is ongoing, as are implementation of additional measures, Kurji said.
Three additional confirmed COVID-19 cases today include a man in his 30s in Markham (travel, self-isolating), a woman in her 60s in Vaughan (under investigation, self-isolating) and a woman in her 50s in Markham (travel, self-isolating).
"People who are elderly, have other medical conditions or reduced immunity seem to be more vulnerable," he reminded.
The province has implemented strict protocols for long-term care homes and seniors residences, with only essential visitors permitted to enter with active screening required. Essential visitors are those who have a resident who is very ill or requiring end-of-life care.
