Halton Confirms First Case of COVID-19

Dr. David Williams, Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health and Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Halton region. This is the 37th case confirmed in Ontario.

A 32- year old female returned from Hawaii on Saturday, and became symptomatic on Monday.  She was tested at Hamilton Health Sciences’ (HHS) Juravinski Hospital on Monday, March 9. “When she began to show symptoms, infection control protocol was swiftly initiated and she was tested in a safe environment,” Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer said.  The Region of Halton, Hamilton Public Health, and HHS are working together on tracing those who came in contact with the patient.

The patient is reported to be a radiation oncologist in the cancer clinic who came into contact with 14 patients.  “What it speaks is our vigilance now, should any of these individuals develop symptoms.  We have an extremely low threshold to bring them in, and investigate them.  Two other doctors have self-isolated, and one is travelling.  They are in the process of trying to contact them.Hamilton Health Sciences expanded its criteria for testing beyond the standard case definition to include any travel outside Canada. 

“Halton Region Public Health is continuing to work with provincial and local health counterparts and with the resident to identify all known contacts who may have been potentially exposed to the virus to assess if there is a potential health risk,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health. “The risk to Halton residents remains low.”

Residents concerned about the virus are asked to contact Halton Region Public Health by calling 311, 905-825-6000 or toll free at 1-866-442-5866 if you have a fever OR cough OR breathing difficulty AND any of the following:

• travelled outside of Canada in the 14 days before onset of illness; or
• close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19; or
• close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who travelled to affected areas within 14 days prior to their illness onset.

The best way to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 is to:

• stay home when ill;
• cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve;
• wash hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand rub;
• clean and disinfect objects and surfaces.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the website.