CORONAVIRUS REPORT FOR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020: FIRST CASE IN ALGOMA, FIRST POSSIBLE DEATH IN ONTARIO:
LOCAL: First returning Algoma traveller tests positiveĀ for COVID-19
The Algoma District has its first confirmed case of COVID-19
Public Health Algoma Associate Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jennifer Loo says a woman in her 50s returned to the region from the United States on March 15th.
Dr. Loo says she had developed respiratory symptoms on March 16th and presented at the Sault Area Hospital the same day.
She says the woman was tested and then discharged home where she remains in self-isolation.
Dr. Loo says it is not a surprise the virus has shown up in the district, but adds health agencies are ready to deal with the crisis as best as they can be.
PROVINCIAL: Possible death to COVID-19 in Ontario
Ontario is investigating the first possible death in the province related to the coronavirus.
A 77-year-old man who passed away at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie a week ago was found to have the virus in his system and an autopsy will be done to see what role the virus played in his death.
The man had been in close contact with another elderly man who has tested positive and is now in hospital in serious condition.
The news came as the Ford government announced a state of emergency, giving it the power to enforce restrictions that are already in place in many locations.
All recreation centres, libraries, theatres, daycares, restaurants and bars have been closed until at least March 31st.
Restaurants and bars can continue to offer take-out and pickup/delivery service.
There are currently 189 cases of COVID-19 in Ontario.
NATIONAL AND AROUND THE WORLD: Border closure today
Canada and the United States are likely to announce a joint closure of the Canadian-U.S. borders to casual travellers although trade and commerce will continue.
The move comes the same day of Canadaās closure of all its borders, ports and airports alike, to foreigners except Canadian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate families
There are almost 600 cases of the virus across Canada with B.C. reporting the highest number of fatalities at seven.
Worldwide, there are almost 200,000 cases with 8,000 fatalities.
