All Protocols Followed and Risk to Ontarians Remains Low

March 5, 2020, 10:33 A.M., News Release from the Ministry of Health

TORONTO — Today, Dr. David Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health, confirmed two new positive cases of COVID-19 bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ontario to 22. Of these, the first four cases in the province are all resolved, with each of those patients having two consecutive negative tests at least 24 hours apart.  

A woman in her 50s who returned from Italy on Tuesday, March 3, 2020, presented herself to Grand River Hospital’s emergency department, in Kitchener, where she was assessed, tested, and discharged home the same day. The patient is experiencing mild symptoms and remains in self-isolation at home with minimal contact with others. The hospital followed standard operating procedures and continues taking necessary precautions. Region of Waterloo Public Health is actively monitoring the situation, including contact tracing. 

A man in his 60s who returned from Iran on Saturday, February 29, 2020, presented himself to Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre’s emergency department, in Toronto, on Tuesday, March 3. He was assessed and discharged home on the same day. As per protocols, he went into self-isolation where he remains with minimal contact with others. Toronto Public Health is actively engaged in contact tracing and case management.

As a result of the coordinated efforts of our health care and public health system, all individuals who have tested positive have been quickly assessed and isolated.

At this time, the virus is not circulating locally. However, given the global circumstances, Ontario is actively working with city and health partners to plan for the potential of local spread. The province continues to carefully monitor this situation and encourage residents to stay informed by regularly reviewing credible information sources.###